How to Tell If It’s Norovirus

Vomiting is often one of the first—and most intense—symptoms of norovirus. It tends to come on suddenly, sometimes within hours of exposure, and can be forceful enough to feel alarming. While unpleasant, it’s the body’s way of quickly trying to get rid of the virus.

Frequent vomiting can make it hard to stay hydrated, especially if it’s happening alongside diarrhea. For most people, the worst of it passes in a day or two, but it’s important to rest and sip fluids when possible to prevent dehydration, especially in young children and older adults.

Alongside vomiting, diarrhea is a hallmark symptom of norovirus—and it usually shows up just as quickly. The stool tends to be watery, and the episodes can be frequent and urgent. For adults, it’s exhausting. For kids and older adults, it can become dangerous if dehydration sets in.

This symptom typically lasts for a couple of days, but during that time, the body can lose a lot of fluids fast. Electrolyte drinks, broths, or even ice chips can help if drinking feels difficult. If symptoms worsen or linger longer than expected, it’s worth checking in with a doctor.

Nausea often sets in before other symptoms fully kick in. It’s that queasy, uneasy feeling in your stomach that something isn’t right—and with norovirus, it usually means vomiting or diarrhea isn’t far behind.

This early wave of discomfort can make it hard to eat or drink, but small sips of clear liquids or electrolyte drinks can help you stay ahead of dehydration. For some people, nausea lingers even after other symptoms fade, especially if they’re still regaining their appetite.

Stomach cramps are a familiar part of norovirus and can be one of the more uncomfortable symptoms. The pain might feel like pressure, gas, or a dull ache that comes and goes. It can also be paired with bloating or gurgling sounds in your belly.

It’s not pleasant, but it’s a sign your body is trying to work through the virus. Rest, gentle movement, and staying hydrated can make a big difference while you ride it out.

Not everyone with norovirus gets a fever, but it’s fairly common. If it shows up, it’s usually low-grade—just enough to make you feel achy, chilled, or worn down. In some cases, it comes with shivering or mild sweating.

While it’s uncomfortable, a slight fever means your body is doing what it’s supposed to: fighting off the virus. Rest and hydration are key. If a fever climbs higher or sticks around longer than a couple of days, it’s worth checking in with a doctor.

Headaches aren’t always top of mind when you think about norovirus, but they’re a common side effect. They can be caused by dehydration, disrupted sleep, or just the general strain your body’s under while fighting the virus.

If you’re dealing with a headache along with other symptoms, it’s another sign to focus on fluids. Even small sips can help, especially if you’re not keeping much down. Rest and a quiet space can go a long way too.

When norovirus hits, it can leave you feeling sore all over. Muscle aches might show up in your arms, legs, or back, and sometimes around your abdomen—especially if vomiting has been intense.

These aches are part of your body’s response to the virus and the physical strain of being sick. They usually ease up once symptoms start to fade. Until then, warm baths, light stretching, or even just getting cozy under a blanket can help bring some relief.

Fatigue is common with norovirus and can linger even after other symptoms fade. Between the lack of sleep, the effort of being sick, and the toll of dehydration, your body ends up drained.

It’s normal to feel wiped out for a day or two. Giving yourself time to rest, rehydrate, and slowly ease back into eating will help your energy return. Think soft blankets, clear fluids, and zero guilt about taking it easy.

Chills sometimes come along with norovirus, especially if you’re running a low fever. You might feel cold even when bundled up, or get waves of shivering that pass on their own.

While not everyone experiences this, it’s another sign your immune system is at work. Staying hydrated and resting somewhere warm can help you ride it out more comfortably.

There’s no medication that cures norovirus, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing dehydration. Rest is essential, and fluids are your best friend—especially those with electrolytes, like sports drinks or broths.

For kids, Pedialyte or diluted juice can help. For adults, popsicles, tea, or clear soup might be easier to tolerate than large glasses of water. Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol, or a lot of sugar, which can make diarrhea worse.

Most people start feeling better within a few days, but getting enough rest and fluids during that time makes a big difference.

For most people, norovirus clears up on its own within a few days. But dehydration is a serious risk—especially for infants, young kids, older adults, or anyone with a weakened immune system.

Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine, or going long stretches without needing to pee. Babies may cry without tears or stop having wet diapers. If symptoms stick around or these warning signs show up, it’s time to call a doctor.