To prevent norovirus infection, follow these key steps:
- Wash hands thoroughly and often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before eating or preparing food, and after caring for someone who is sick. Hand sanitizer is not effective against norovirus and should not replace handwashing
- Cook shellfish thoroughly (to at least 145°F) and wash fruits and vegetables carefully before eating or preparing them
- Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces promptly using a chlorine bleach solution (5 to 25 tablespoons of household bleach per gallon of water) or an EPA-registered disinfectant effective against norovirus. Wear gloves when cleaning areas contaminated with vomit or diarrhea, and leave the disinfectant on surfaces for at least 5 minutes
- Wash laundry exposed to the virus in hot water and dry on the highest heat setting
- Avoid preparing food or caring for others when sick and stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop to prevent spreading the virus
- Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw and cooked foods separate and routinely sanitizing kitchen utensils and surfaces
- Avoid high-risk foods and situations , such as potluck meals or food prepared by others during outbreaks
These measures are the most effective ways to reduce the risk of norovirus infection and transmission. There is currently no vaccine available, so prevention relies on hygiene and sanitation practices
