The Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes an immediate onset of diarrhea and vomiting.  Anyone can contract the virus, and the most common way that it spreads is through contaminated food or water, either from improper preparation methods or contaminated surfaces.  Outbreaks are very common because it spreads quickly and easily.  Interestingly enough, Norovirus outbreaks are most common from November to April.  People who get infected are typically fine within three days, and recovery without treatment is very common; however, medical attention may be necessary for infants and elderly people. 

The symptoms of Norovirus infection will typically appear about 12-48 hours after exposure.  Symptoms typically last for one to three days, and the most common symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Low-grade fever
• Muscle pain

It is possible for people to become infected with Norovirus in several ways.  Noroviruses are highly contagious and they shed in the feces of infected humans and animals.  It is easy to contract the virus if you are in close contact with someone who is sick, if you touch contaminated surfaces and then touch your mouth, or if you eat or drink contaminated foods or water.  Other possible causes and risk factors can include:

• Eating food with poor sanitation practices
• Having contact with an infected person
• Touching your hand to your mouth (after your hand has contacted a contaminated surface or object)
• Living in close quarters (such as nursing homes)

• Vomiting and nausea are two common symptoms of Norovirus, so it is wise to do all that you can to keep these symptoms at bay.  Both ginger and mint are two herbs that work to relieve inflammation, indigestion, and nausea.  Ginger tea can be made by steeping freshly sliced ginger root in a cup of hot water.  You can use mint tea bags or fresh mint leaves to make mint tea.  You can drink both of these teas to reduce feelings of nausea or upset stomach.
• While you have any infection that induces vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain, it is best to avoid certain foods.  This can be as beneficial as eating the right foods!  According to nutritionists, people with Norovirus should avoid sugar, dairy products, alcohol, tomato products, caffeine, and any foods that are overly salty, fatty, greasy, or spicy.  All of those foods can further upset the stomach and worsen symptoms. 
• A list of natural remedies for Norovirus wouldn't be complete without rest.  This is the simplest natural method to accelerate recovery time.  The body needs time to recuperate, so take it easy if you get infected with Norovirus.  The symptoms can take a lot out of you, so you need ample rest to get back to your healthiest self. 
• Elderberry is an excellent immune-boosting herb that has been known to break down and prevent the spread of the virus.  The remarkable factor of elderberry is that it is effective against viral mutations in the body.  Scientists believe that it has the ability to anticipate the mutation, so it acts accordingly and readies the immune system to develop an appropriate response.  
• Echinacea is another powerful herb that helps to increase the body's resistance to infection.  If you become infected with Norovirus, it can be beneficial to consume Echinacea extract or tea to help reduce the presence of the infection in the body.  The antiviral and antimicrobial properties are beneficial for both bacterial and viral attacks. 
• When you have any condition that causes vomiting, diarrhea, or both, you are liable to lose a lot of water.  This increases your risk of dehydration and can make you feel even worse.  To counteract this, it is imperative to consume a lot of water and other clear liquids like fresh coconut water or herbal teas.  You can also consume foods like watermelon, cucumber, or celery, all three of which have high water content. 

• Steel Cut Oats
• Watermelon
• Cucumber
• Celery
• Ginger
• Peppermint Tea
• Fresh Coconut Water
• Bananas
• Homemade Applesauce
• Wild Rice
• Potatoes
• Strawberries
• Cantaloupe
• Peaches