Is Norovirus a Concern at College?

Female college student wearing a mask to help prevent norovirus while working on her laptop on campus

Yes, it is. The most common cause of foodborne illness, norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes inflammation in the digestive tract, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Although commonly referred to as “stomach flu,” norovirus is unrelated to the flu caused by the influenza virus. Even so, much like the flu, it spreads like wildfire on college campuses, where many students live in close quarters, share restrooms and dining areas, and attend classes in enclosed spaces.

Norovirus Is Easily Transmitted

People who are infected with norovirus shed billions of microscopic virus particles, and only a few are needed to make another person sick. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you can contract norovirus by:

  • Eating foods or drinking liquids that are contaminated with the virus
  • Touching surfaces that are contaminated with the virus and then touching your face or mouth with your unwashed hands
  • Having close contact with someone who is infected with the virus

The symptoms of norovirus typically appear within 12 to 48 hours after exposure, then resolve within 24 to 72 hours. However, some people experience frequent vomiting and/or diarrhea, which can quickly lead to dehydration. Therefore, it is important to drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids and seek medical attention right away if you experience dry mouth, infrequent urination, or dizziness. If left untreated, severe dehydration can quickly escalate and become a life-threatening emergency.

Staying Healthy on Campus

Although norovirus is a concern at college, you can take steps to protect yourself by:

  • Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling, preparing, or eating food and after using a restroom
  • Carefully washing fruits and vegetables before eating them
  • Cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces
  • Washing used laundry promptly and thoroughly

If you develop symptoms of norovirus, you should avoid close contact with other people until at least two days after you recover. This includes preparing food and providing healthcare.

If you are attending college in Tampa, FL, and you need non-emergency medical attention, you are welcome to visit South Tampa Immediate Care. Our walk-in clinic is conveniently located at 602 S. Howard Ave., where we offer prompt diagnostic and treatment services for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses, such as norovirus.