Diseases

Norwalk Like Virus Infection

Back

Noroviruses are a group of related viruses that cause acute gastrointestinal illnesssporadically or in outbreaks. Noroviruses are sometimes referred to as "norwalk virus" or "norwalk-like virus," based on the name given to the first strain identified in the 1970s.

SYMPTOMS

A norwalk virus infection results in illness 24 to 48 hours after exposure, andsymptoms last from 12-48 hours. Illness is Characterized by the abrupt onset of vomiting and/or non-bloody diarrhea; abdominal cramps are common. 25-50% of patients report headache, nausea, malaise, myalgias and low-grade fever.

CAUSES

Norwalk virus causes viral gastroenteritis, which is also known as acute nonbacterial gastroenteritis, food poisoning, food infection, stomach flu, and winter vomiting disease. A norwalk virus infection results in illness 24 to 48 hours after exposure, and symptoms last from 12-48 hours.