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Norovirus is a common cause of vomiting and diarrhoeal (gastrointestinal) illness and is highly infectious.

It is a major cause of:  

  • non-bacterial food and waterborne outbreaks world-wide; 
  • gastrointestinal outbreaks in institutions such as childcare centres, rest homes and hospitals. 

People of any age can become infected and you can get Norovirus even if you have never had it before.

How is it caught? Norovirus is spread by swallowing or breathing in droplets containing the virus from the faeces (poo) or vomit of an infected person. 

Find out more in this brochure from Canterbury District Health Board.