When can a healthcare worker with an active norovirus infection return to work?

• A. After 48 hours of symptom resolution.
• B. After 7 days of symptoms.
• C. After completing antiviral therapy.
• D. Immediately after starting antiemetics.

Answer: (A)

Returning to work after a norovirus illness is about minimizing the risk of transmitting the virus to patients and colleagues. Norovirus is highly contagious and can be shed in stool and vomit even after symptoms improve. The safest guideline is to stay home until the person is symptom-free and at least 48 hours have passed since the last vomiting or diarrhea episode. This 48-hour window reduces the chance of spreading the virus in a healthcare setting.

There is no antiviral treatment for norovirus, so completing therapy isn’t a factor. Antiemetics may help with nausea, but they don’t eliminate infection or transmission risk, so returning immediately after starting them isn’t appropriate.