I have norovirus and have a couple different questions?
1. Will OTC medicines help me feel better, should I take Tums or Pepto Bismal to help me feel better?
2. What foods should I eat to prevent more vomiting?
3. How long should it be before I can return to school?
Thank you for your help.
Answer by norton g
David – By Mayo Clinic staff
There’s no specific treatment for norovirus infection, and recovery generally depends on the health of your immune system. In most otherwise healthy people, the illness usually resolves within a few days. The key factor is to replace lost fluids. Drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration so you won’t need to receive fluids intravenously. It’s a good idea to have commercially prepared oral hydration solution, such as Pedialyte, on hand. Drinking liquids that contain a lot of sugar, such as soft drinks and many sports drinks, can make diarrhea worse. People with severe nausea and vomiting are often given medicines (for example, promethazine [Phenergan], prochlorperazine [Compazine], or ondansetron [Zofran]) to reduce or stop vomiting. For adults, clear fluids (for example, sports drinks, Sprite, juices without any pulp, bouillon) are recommended.
People with norovirus infection should not return to work until about three days after all symptoms have resolved. Strict hygiene with good hand washing needs to be emphasized for these individuals, as some people shed virus in their feces for two weeks after symptoms resolve.
A bland diet is recommended for children and adults as the symptoms of the norovirus infection diminish. Food items such as rice, bread, bananas, applesauce, pasta, and clear fluids are suggested.
diarrhea and vomiting:I have norovirus and have a couple different questions?
