What should you know about norovirus and hepatitis A?

Norovirus commonly causes sudden vomiting, watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps and nausea. Hepatitis A is a liver infection that may begin with feeling generally unwell, loss of appetite, nausea or tiredness before liver-related signs appear. Dark urine or yellowing of the eyes needs medical assessment. Symptoms can overlap, so symptoms alone cannot confirm which infection is present.

Both infections can spread through contaminated hands, food or surfaces. Careful handwashing with soap and water, cleaning contaminated areas and avoiding food preparation while unwell help reduce spread. Antibiotics do not treat either virus.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink, especially after vomiting or diarrhoea. Rest, eat simple foods when you feel able, and avoid preparing food for other people while symptoms continue. Do not share towels, utensils or drinks. A clinician may arrange a liver function test or other tests if hepatitis A is possible. Hepatitis A vaccination can help prevent infection in appropriate situations.

Seek urgent care for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, trouble breathing, blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. Contact a clinician promptly for dark urine, yellow eyes or skin, persistent vomiting, or symptoms after possible hepatitis A exposure. Infants, older adults, pregnant people and those with liver disease may need earlier advice.

Ask whether your symptoms fit a stomach infection or a liver infection, whether testing is needed, how to protect household contacts, and whether hepatitis A vaccination is suitable.