What advice should I provide to patients recovering from norovirus regarding diet and hydration?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 22 August 2025Updated: 22 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Advice for patients recovering from norovirus regarding diet and hydration:

  • Encourage the patient to continue drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
  • Advise continuing usual feeds, including breast milk or other milk feeds, without interruption.
  • Avoid giving fruit juices and carbonated drinks until diarrhoea has completely stopped, as these can worsen symptoms.
  • After rehydration, patients should reintroduce their usual diet gradually, including solid foods.
  • If the patient is at increased risk of dehydration or has ongoing diarrhoea, consider giving oral rehydration solution (ORS) after each large watery stool to maintain hydration.

This advice helps ensure adequate hydration and nutritional recovery following norovirus infection.

References:

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.