Stomach flu causes

Norovirus, often called the stomach “flu” or stomach bug, is one of the most common causes of gastroenteritis, which describes inflammation of the stomach and intestines.

This illness causes unpleasant symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. 

Although norovirus is often referred to as the stomach ‘flu,’ it is different from influenza and cannot be prevented by the annual flu shot.

In the U.S., norovirus is the leading cause of stomach flu, with about 19 to 21 million cases reported annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The virus causes an estimated 465,000 emergency room visits and 2.5 million doctor visits each year, particularly during winter months (November through April) when outbreaks are more common.

Norovirus is highly contagious and fast-spreading, meaning it easily moves through households, schools and public spaces.

While most cases of norovirus resolve on their own, it’s important to understand the signs, duration and when to seek medical care.

how is norovirus diagnosed

how is viral gastroenteritis diagnosed