Norovirus and pregnancy: What you need to know to protect yourself and your baby
With norovirus cases making a noticeable spike across the United States, it’s more important than ever to know how to protect yourself and your baby from this highly contagious stomach bug.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a sharp rise in outbreaks, with 91 cases the week of December 5 compared to 69 the week before. In previous years, the number of outbreaks in early December was typically much lower. These outbreaks often occur in crowded places like schools, nursing homes, and cruise ships. In one instance, over 300 people were affected across three cruise ships in early December.
As we head into the winter months, when norovirus is most prevalent, it’s a good reminder to stay informed and take extra precautions to safeguard your health—and your baby’s health—during this seasonal challenge.
Let’s take a closer look at how you can navigate this tricky time with confidence and care.
What is norovirus?
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, more commonly known as the “stomach bug” or “stomach flu.”
According to the The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it’s the top cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., and it spreads easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms—nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps—typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure. While unpleasant, norovirus usually clears up within one to three days in otherwise healthy individuals.
Related: Is it norovirus or Shigella? How to tell the difference
How does norovirus spread?
Norovirus is incredibly efficient at spreading. Here’s how it gets around:
Direct contact with an infected person: Caring for someone with the virus, sharing food or utensils, or eating food prepared by an infected person can all spread it.
Contaminated food or water: The virus can infect food that wasn’t properly handled, washed, or cooked.
Touching contaminated surfaces: If you touch a surface where the virus is lurking and then touch your mouth, you’re at risk.
Persistence after recovery: Even once symptoms subside, you can continue shedding the virus for up to two weeks. Yes, that means you can still spread it even when you feel better.
Because it takes only a tiny amount of the virus to cause illness, outbreaks often happen in places like nursing homes, schools, cruise ships, and other densely populated areas.
Related: What parents should know about hidden risks at splash pads, according to a new CDC report
Why pregnant people should be cautious
Norovirus may not directly harm your baby, but dehydration—one of the virus’s most common side effects—poses a real risk. The CDC emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant: “Pregnant women should speak to their healthcare provider right away with any medical concerns or if they think they may have symptoms of norovirus, especially to prevent dehydration.”
Remember, your health is the top priority right now, and your provider is there to guide you through it.
Norovirus symptoms and duration
Symptoms of norovirus typically include:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Stomach cramps
These symptoms usually last one to three days, but the discomfort can feel prolonged due to their intensity. For pregnant individuals, managing these symptoms can be emotionally and physically taxing.
Dr. Shara Brofman, a licensed clinical psychologist, highlights the psychological impact of gastrointestinal symptoms during pregnancy: “What comes to mind as particularly psychologically difficult, not to mention the physical distress, is managing uncertainty—worrying about the illness’s impact on pregnancy and not knowing when the symptoms will end.”
Preventive measures for you and your family
As we head into peak norovirus season (November through April), prevention is everything. Here’s what you can do:
Prioritize handwashing: Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially before meals and after bathroom trips. Hand sanitizers aren’t effective against norovirus.
Disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean high-touch surfaces with disinfectants or bleach—especially if someone in your household is sick.
Be cautious with food prep: Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and cook shellfish completely.
Avoid sharing personal items: Don’t share utensils, towels, or anything that could carry the virus.
Managing symptoms during pregnancy
If you suspect you have norovirus, it’s crucial to focus on hydration. Stephanie LaRochelle, director of infection prevention and control at Lawrence General Hospital, advises: “Stay hydrated by drinking small amounts of water frequently, and consider oral rehydration solutions to replenish lost electrolytes.” Small, easy-to-digest meals can also help you regain strength.
If any of the following occur, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor:
Severe dehydration (symptoms include dry mouth, dizziness, or infrequent urination)
Prolonged symptoms beyond a few days
Concerns about your baby’s well-being
Creating a care plan
Pregnancy can bring so many unknowns, and an illness like norovirus can make things feel even more uncertain. But having a plan in place can help you feel more prepared, and less stressed. Here are some tips for creating a care plan to manage an illness like norovirus:
Keep emergency contacts handy: Have your healthcare provider’s number ready to go, and include backup contacts in case you need urgent advice.
Hydration kit: Stock up on oral rehydration solutions, herbal teas, and electrolyte drinks. Having a reusable water bottle to track your intake will make hydration easier.
Reach out to your support network: Get your family and friends involved to help with tasks like household chores, childcare, and errands while you rest and recover.
Mindfulness: Take a few minutes each day for deep breathing, journaling, or using pregnancy-focused mindfulness apps. This can help calm your nerves during recovery.
Prepared meals: Freeze easy-to-digest meals like soups and broths, so you don’t have to worry about cooking when you’re not feeling your best.
Symptom tracker: Keep a small notebook or an app where you can track how you’re feeling, your fluid intake, and any medications you’re taking. This info can be really helpful when you talk to your healthcare provider.
Comfort items: Stock up on your favorite comfort items, like a heating pad, cozy blankets, or soothing essential oils. These can help you feel more at ease while you recover.
Childcare arrangements: If you have older children, make sure you’ve arranged backup childcare to give yourself the space you need to rest and heal.
The bottom line
Norovirus is unpleasant, but it’s usually short-lived and won’t harm your baby directly. By staying proactive and informed, you’ll minimize its impact on your pregnancy. You’re strong, you’re resilient, and with the right tools in place, you can handle this temporary setback with grace and confidence. You’ve got this.
Sources:
Pregnant With Norovirus? 2024. Newsweek. “Pregnant With Norovirus? Here’s Everything You Need to Know.“
About Norovirus. 2024. Centers for Disease Control. “About Norovirus.“
