Few illnesses come on as abruptly as norovirus. One moment you may feel completely fine, and the next you’re dealing with intense nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If symptoms develop suddenly and spread quickly among family members, coworkers, or classmates, norovirus is often the cause. Commonly referred to as the “stomach flu,” norovirus is not related to influenza. Instead, it’s a highly contagious virus that affects the stomach and intestines, causing inflammation known as viral gastroenteritis.
For same-day norovirus treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands. Our center is conveniently located at 3800 Irving Street in Denver, CO. Just walk-in any day of the week or plan your visit in advance below!
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is one of the leading causes of acute gastroenteritis worldwide. It spreads easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, and close contact with infected individuals. Outbreaks frequently occur in schools, workplaces, and nursing homes because the virus spreads rapidly in close quarters. Unlike some other stomach viruses, norovirus symptoms often appear suddenly and intensely.
The hallmark signs of norovirus include:
- Sudden nausea
- Repeated vomiting
- Watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Low-grade fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Fatigue
Symptoms typically begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure. For many people, vomiting is most severe during the first 24 hours, while diarrhea and fatigue may last a bit longer.
How Long Do Norovirus Symptoms Last?
In otherwise healthy individuals, norovirus usually lasts 1 to 3 days. The most intense symptoms tend to occur early, with gradual improvement over the following 48 to 72 hours. Although the illness is short-lived, it can feel severe while it’s happening. Even after symptoms improve, mild fatigue or stomach sensitivity may linger for a few additional days.
Norovirus infects the lining of the stomach and intestines, triggering inflammation that disrupts normal digestion and fluid absorption. The body reacts by rapidly emptying the stomach and intestines through vomiting and diarrhea in an effort to eliminate the virus.
How Contagious is Norovirus?
Norovirus is extremely contagious. It can spread through:
- Eating contaminated food
- Drinking contaminated water
- Touching contaminated surfaces
- Close contact with someone who is infected
People who remain contagious while symptomatic and for several days after recovery. Careful handwashing with soap and water is essential, as alcohol-based hand sanitizers may be less effective against norovirus.
When to Seek Urgent Care
You should consider visiting an urgent care center if:
- Vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than 3 days
- Signs of dehydration develop
- There is severe abdominal pain
- High fever persists
- Symptoms occur in infants, elderly individuals, or high-risk patients
Urgent care providers can assess hydration status, provide supportive treatment, and help rule out other causes. While norovirus is a common cause of sudden gastrointestinal symptoms, other conditions can cause similar symptoms, including food poisoning, bacterial infections, or other viral illnesses.
Dealing With Norovirus Symptoms? Visit AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands for Walk-In Care
If you experience sudden vomiting and diarrhea that develops quickly and intensely, norovirus is a likely cause, especially if others around you are also sick. Although the illness is usually brief, staying hydrated and monitoring symptoms is essential. If symptoms are severe, prolonged, or accompanied by signs of dehydration, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands for expert care. No appointments are required. Just walk-in! We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about norovirus treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 477-6000.
