Norovirus and sickness in toddlers: how to spot and treat it

I think my toddler has norovirus. What should I do?

You can give your child an age-appropriate amount of paracetamol or ibuprofen if they have a temperature and are unwell. When treating any diarrhoea and vomiting illness it is really important to keep up your child's fluid intake.

Go gently here, though. Just as you couldn't drink a pint of water if you had diarrhoea and vomiting without bringing it back up, your child probably won't be able to tolerate large volumes of fluids all at once.

Little and often is the key – even 5ml every 5 minutes, via a syringe if needs be, and then , if they can keep it down, gradually increase the volume and how often you are giving it. For younger toddlers and children, put the syringe between their lower teeth and cheek as that way they are less likely to spit out the liquid.

You can also ask your pharmacist about the possibility of giving your child rehydration sachets, such as Dioralyte, which might help. Your pharmacist can advise you on whether this is appropriate or not, depending on your child's age.

Your child may not want to eat much. You could try giving them small amounts of food – plain wholegrain toast, yoghurt, fruit, for example – but don't worry too much about their lack of appetite.

I know, as a parent myself, how much we worry when our children don’t eat but eating less for a few days when they are unwell is not a concern – as long as they are drinking and urinating

Is norovirus dangerous for toddlers? When should I seek medical help?

Most toddlers and small children with norovirus will start to feel better within 48 hours, even if some of the symptoms haven't completely gone. But you should seek medical help if:

• Your child can't tolerate 5ml of fluid every 5 minutes
• Their fever won't come down with paracetamol or ibuprofen
• They stop weeing for more than 6 hours
• They are drowsy or floppy
• You are concerned and feel something isn't quite right

How do I stop norovirus from spreading?

Norovirus is spread when tiny particles of poo or vomit that contain the virus pass from the infection person to the mouth of another person (medics call this the faecal-oral route of infection).

The infection can spread this way very easily, so it's important to wipe down all surfaces, including door handles, with a disinfectant spray, and immediately remove and wash any soiled clothing or bedding. Don’t share cutlery, dishes, cups or glasses.

Norovirus can be spread when children suck toys. The virus can live on hard surfaces for days, so sharing toys or other items can also cause it to spread.

If your toddler usually goes to nursery or a childminder, then, to prevent the infection spreading, your child should stay at home until 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea as they will still be infectious until the 48-hour period has passed.

Last updated 17 March 2023

Pics: Getty

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