How long is the stomach flu contagious?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
Longer than you feel sick - per the CDC, norovirus spreads during symptoms and for a few days after you feel fine. During the sick stretch you are massively contagious, and it takes very few viral particles to infect the next person. The rules: no food prep for others during illness and for at least two days after, soap-and-water handwashing (sanitizer is a weak backup), and bleach-based cleaning of contaminated surfaces and laundry.
What to do
- Ban the sick person from the kitchen. No cooking for others during illness or the two days after.
- Wash with soap and water. Hand sanitizer is a weak defense against norovirus.
- Bleach the contaminated zones. Bathroom surfaces and soiled laundry promptly, with gloves.
- Respect the after-days. Feeling fine does not end the shedding - keep the precautions a few more days.
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