How effective is oral rehydration therapy for norovirus infection?

Norovirus commonly causes sudden vomiting and watery diarrhoea, which remove water and electrolytes from the body. Oral rehydration solution replaces both and is absorbed even while the gut is unsettled. It treats the fluid loss rather than the virus, so nausea and diarrhoea may continue while hydration is maintained. Recovery also depends on rest and careful infection control at home.

Choose a prepared oral rehydration solution and mix it exactly as directed. After vomiting, pause briefly, then restart with tiny, frequent sips; increase gradually as tolerated. Continue breastfeeding or usual feeds for a child unless a clinician advises otherwise. Wash hands with soap and water, clean contaminated surfaces and avoid preparing food for others while unwell. See Oral Rehydration Therapy for practical guidance.

Get urgent help for confusion, unusual sleepiness, fainting, severe weakness, blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, or inability to keep fluids down. Seek medical advice for very little urine, a dry mouth with worsening dizziness, or symptoms that are not settling. Babies, older adults and people with significant medical conditions can become dehydrated quickly and may need earlier assessment.

Ask which solution is appropriate, how to manage fluids after vomiting, and whether your medicines should be adjusted during diarrhoea. For a child, ask about feeding, urine output and the signs that require same-day review.