Norovirus can play protective role in mice

Infection can help intestines develop, strengthen immune system

Even a nasty “stomach bug” may have a good side.

Noroviruses are best known for the diarrhea and vomiting they produce in people. But a mouse norovirus can do the work of friendly gut bacteria to protect the intestines and boost the immune systems of mice, researchers from New York University School of Medicine report November 19 in Nature.