While they’re convenient when you’re on the go, hand sanitizers will not kill norovirus, per the CDC. “The alcohol in them can’t just penetrate and disrupt this virus,” says William Schaffner, M.D., an infectious disease specialist and professor at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.

Hand sanitizer alone isn't enough to protect you from norovirus, experts say. So it's important to know how to stay safe and wash your hands properly.