Norovirus is spreading fast—are you ready? At The GrayVine, we know staying healthy is your top priority. That’s why we’re sharing expert tips to help you stay ahead of the wave.


Norovirus, often dubbed the “winter vomiting bug,” is notorious for causing a suite of unpleasant symptoms, including severe vomiting, diarrhea, body aches, headaches, and fever.

It's highly contagious and can spread like wildfire, especially in close quarters.

Dr. Bruce Hirsch, an infectious disease specialist at Northwell Health, emphasizes that the best defense against norovirus is a good offense.

Dr. Hirsch's advice is clear: don't wait until you're in the throes of norovirus to scramble for supplies.

Instead, he recommends assembling a norovirus survival pack in advance. Here's what you should include:

1. Hydration helpers​

The cornerstone of your survival pack should be electrolyte drinks like Pedialyte or sports drinks such as Gatorade. These are crucial for staying hydrated if you fall ill.

They come in various forms, including ready-to-drink bottles, powders, and tablets that dissolve in water.

If you find yourself without these, a homemade mixture of sugar and salt in water can serve as a makeshift rehydration solution.

2. Bland foods​

When you're ready to eat, bland is best.

Simple carbohydrates like rice and pasta (sans oil or butter) are gentle on the stomach. Broths, fruit juices, and cereals are also good options.

Avoid dairy products temporarily, as norovirus can cause a temporary lactase deficiency, making it difficult to digest lactose.

3. A vomiting and diarrhea strategy​

Have a plan for where you'll spend your recovery time, ideally with easy access to a bathroom.

Keep a vomit receptacle, like a bowl or bucket, handy to avoid messy situations.

4. Cleaning supplies​

Bleach is your ally in disinfecting your space.

Dilute it according to the instructions and clean any surfaces you've touched to prevent the spread of the virus.

This is especially important if you live with others.

5. Soap and water​

Hand sanitizers are not as effective against norovirus. Regular handwashing with soap and water is your best bet for preventing the spread of the virus.


Surprisingly, Dr. Hirsch advises against stocking up on medications like Imodium or anti-nausea drugs.

Norovirus symptoms, while intense, are typically short-lived, and these medications may not be necessary.

For our members here at The GrayVine, it's particularly important to be vigilant.

The immune system can weaken with age, making it harder to fight off infections like norovirus.

Moreover, older adults are more susceptible to dehydration, which can exacerbate the symptoms and prolong recovery.

By assembling your norovirus survival pack now, you're taking a proactive step to ensure you can handle whatever the season throws your way.

In a previous story, a norovirus outbreak is sweeping the nation, and oysters are at the center. Read more about it here.
Have you ever battled norovirus? Do you have additional tips for staying healthy during outbreak season? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below.