Ask a doctor on the topic of Other questions to doctors

Diarrheal illnesses

January 20, 2014 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Is there soon going to be a vaccine against the Norovirus or a vaccine against diarrheal diseases? I am afraid of getting infected with this virus because I also work closely with people in my profession. Thank you in advance.

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Good morning,

While there is a vaccine against rotavirus for infants, it is not sensible or approved to vaccinate adults with it, as they would likely only experience very mild symptoms, if any.

There are also many different viruses and bacteria that can cause diarrhea, against which one cannot be vaccinated.

However, if you regularly wash your hands, avoid touching your face when they are not clean, and also regularly ventilate your living space, the risk of infection is minimal.

I see patients with diarrhea every day and I can't even remember the last time I was sick myself, it has been so long.

Best regards, Dr. Höllering, Specialist in Internal Medicine and General Practice