Student Health and Counseling

Norovirus Questions and Answers


What is norovirus?


How do people become infected with noroviruses?


  • eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with norovirus



What treatment is available for people with norovirus infection?




How can I decrease my chances of getting norovirus?


  • ALWAYS WASH YOUR HANDS IMMEDIATELY BEFORE EATING. Norovirus can infect you if you ingest it. Do not touch condiment bottles or salt/pepper shakers while eating. People touch these things regularly, but not all people wash their hands. Apply condiments to your food then wash/sanitize your hands before eating. Eating after you've touched contaminated surfaces (door knobs, counters, serving utensils touched by others) can result in ingesting germs.
  • Washing hands briskly with SOAP AND WATER for at least 20 seconds is BEST. If you can't use soap and water then hand sanitizers can help reduce transmission, especially right before eating. Always wash hands with soap and water after using the bathroom.
  • TRY TO AVOID TOUCHING YOUR MOUTH AND NOSE. You can transmit the germs to yourself if you touch something that has the virus on it and then wipe your mouth or nose with your hand.
  • WIPE DOWN SURFACES BEFORE YOU TOUCH THEM- ESPECIALLY IF OTHERS ARE SICK AROUND YOU. Use a cleanser that contains Bleach/Clorox (premixed or mix your own with 1:10 parts bleach to water or buy spray cleanser). Bleach solution will kill Norovirus on surfaces. Use gloves & a cleanser containing bleach if someone has been sick in your area. Wash your hands after taking off gloves.
  • DON'T SHARE. Sharing food, cups & utensils can spread germs. Use a napkin to grab shared utensils at the buffet & sanitize your hands after you get your food & before eating. If your roommate is ill be considerate, but sanitize and separate your things from theirs.
  • PROTECT YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM. Actions such as getting plenty of sleep, following a healthy diet, drinking water and staying active really do help keep your immune system healthy, especially if a bug is going around campus. PROTECT YOURSELF!
