Norovirus Treatment in Miami

Norovirus, often called the stomach flu, is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. While there’s no treatment for a norovirus infection, proper care can help improve symptoms and speed up recovery.

You can walk in to any nearby UHealth Jackson Urgent Care center to see a doctor quickly to discuss your symptoms; no appointment is required.

Common Symptoms of Norovirus

Norovirus symptoms usually begin about 12 to 48 hours after exposure. The most common symptoms include:

  • Nausea and vomiting – Often the first signs, especially in children
  • Watery diarrhea – Can be frequent and lead to dehydration
  • Stomach cramps or pain – Mild to severe discomfort
  • Low-grade fever – May come with chills
  • Headache and muscle aches – General body discomfort
  • Fatigue – Feeling tired or weak from fluid loss

How UHealth Jackson Urgent Care Can Help

At UHealth Jackson Urgent Care, our medical team can evaluate your symptoms, provide anti-nausea medication to reduce vomiting, and help you stay hydrated. While there’s no specific cure for norovirus, we can test for other illnesses with similar symptoms to ensure an accurate diagnosis. We also examine you for signs of dehydration and recommend more care, if needed. If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or come with dehydration, call your doctor or go to your nearest emergency room right away.

Steps to Take When You Arrive

  • Let the front desk know if you’ve experienced vomiting or diarrhea, so they can take appropriate precautions. You may be directed to a separate waiting area to help prevent the spread of infection.
  • Wear a mask to reduce the risk of spreading norovirus to staff and other patients.
  • Use hand sanitizer or wash your hands often. Norovirus spreads easily through direct contact and contaminated surfaces.

Most Common Questions

How does a norovirus infection happen?

Norovirus spreads easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, and direct contact with infected people. You can become infected by eating food or drinking liquids handled by someone with norovirus, touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth, or being in close contact with a sick person. The virus is highly contagious and can survive on surfaces for days, making handwashing and disinfection essential to preventing its spread.

How long does norovirus typically last?

Most people recover within one to three days, but you may still be contagious for up to two weeks after symptoms go away.

Can antibiotics help with norovirus?

No, antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections. Norovirus is a virus, and there’s no specific antiviral treatment available.

What foods should I avoid while recovering?

You should avoid:

  • Dairy products for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop
  • Fatty, spicy, or highly seasoned foods
  • Alcohol and caffeine, as they can worsen dehydration

Stick to bland foods like toast, rice, bananas, and applesauce to ease your stomach.

How can I prevent dehydration from norovirus?

Drink small, frequent sips of clear fluids, such as water, electrolyte drinks, or broth. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, as they can make dehydration worse.

When should I seek medical care for norovirus?

Visit a UHealth Jackson Urgent Care center if you experience:

  • Severe dehydration (dizziness, rapid heartbeat, dark urine, or inability to keep fluids down)
  • Persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than three days
  • Signs of a more serious illness, such as bloody stool or high fever

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