Increasing numbers of people with vomiting and/or diarrhea have been reported in schools in Larimer County. These illnesses are often due to norovirus (stomach bug).

Norovirus is found in stool and vomit. Someone can get sick when the virus gets into their mouth. This usually happens by eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with norovirus, touching contaminated surfaces, or having contact with someone who has norovirus.

Norovirus spreads easily from person to person.

People sick with vomiting and/or diarrhea should stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop.

Symptoms

Symptoms of the illness include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramping and sometimes a low-grade fever.  Symptoms usually last about 1-3 days and can cause dehydration. If children become dehydrated, they may cry with few or no tears and be unusually sleepy or fussy. Consult with your healthcare provider for symptoms that are severe or do not get better.

What to do

The single best way to prevent getting and spreading norovirus is to wash your hands often with soap and water. Hand sanitizer does not kill norovirus.

Stay home from school, daycare, work and activities if you are sick with vomiting and /or diarrhea for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop. 

Disinfect surfaces that are touched frequently such as doorknobs, countertops, light switches, faucets, etc. with a disinfectant that contains bleach. A simple bleach solution of 1 cup of bleach mixed with 10 cups of water will kill norovirus. Leave the bleach solution on the surface for at least 1 minute before drying. Be sure to rinse food surfaces before preparing food after disinfecting. For more information about disinfecting surfaces for norovirus, click here.

If you have questions about norovirus talk to your healthcare provider or the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment at 970-498-6700.