gastrointestinal disorders
Norovirus Gastroenteritis
Key Points
Norovirus is the most common cause of acute viral gastroenteritis in the United States in all age groups. Clinical course is short but can involve severe vomiting and diarrhea. Oral rehydration is usually adequate, but antiemetics and sometimes IV fluids may be needed. Antidiarrheal agents are safe for adults with watery diarrhea but should be avoided in children < 18 years of age and in any patient with recent antibiotic use, bloody diarrhea, heme-positive stool, or diarrhea with fever. 