Norovirus/Rotavirus

Both norovirus and rotavirus are similar as they both cause inflammation in the stomach and intestines
(gastroenteritis), which causes intense stomach issues. However, rotavirus is most common among infants
and young children.
Norovirus Rotavirus
Identification
Diarrhea Vomiting
Nausea & vomiting Watery diarrhea
Stomach pain and cramping Stomach pain
Other symptoms may include: Fever
fever Symptoms may persist for 3-8 days.
headache
body aches
Norovirus is usually spread through accidental inges-
tion of stool or vomit of infected people.
Symptoms may start 12-48 hours after exposure.
You should start to feel better within 24-72 hours.
Treatment
Preventing dehydration is very important. It is im- Preventing dehydration is also important. Dehydra-
portant to drink plenty of clear liquids while you are tion may be hard to see in infants, look for things
sick. Sports drinks are a common choice as they con- such as fewer number of wet diapers, few or no tears
tain lost electrolytes but can be high in sugar. Hospi- when crying, unusual fussiness, or sleeping more
talization may be required for severe dehydration. than usual. Hospitalization may be required for se-
vere dehydration. Drinks like Pedialyte can helpful
Anti-diarrhea medications, such as Imodium, may be
for children above of the age of one.
useful for children above the age of three and adults.
It is best to check with your doctor first when adminis-

Prevention
There is currently no norovirus vaccine. Proper clean-
ing and handwashing is necessary to prevent the
spread to others in your household. Use gloves while
handling infected clothes and bedding and while clean-
ing up. Wash bedding and clothing ASAP and ma-
chine dry. Do not prepare food for others and try to
avoid direct contact with others for up to two days after
being sick. Wash fruits and vegetables properly and
cook shellfish thoroughly as this is a common first
source of sickness. According to the Centers for Dis-
ease Control (CDC), bleach is the most effective disin-
fectant for norovirus. The recommended dilution is 5-
25 tablespoons of bleach per gallon of water.
There are 2 rotavirus vaccines available:
Vaccine-RotaTeq (RV5), which is given in 3
doses at ages 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months; or
Rotarix (RV1), which is given in 2 doses at ages
2 months and 4 months.
It is possible to get rotavirus, even if vaccinated.
However, it should be a milder case than if not vac-
cinated. Discuss with your doctor if your baby should
receive the vaccination.
https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/rotavirus/index.html