Posted on by admin

Stomach Flu: Symptoms, Vomiting, and What to Do

html

Is Stomach Flu Going Around? Symptoms, Vomiting, and What to Do

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

  • Stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis) is highly contagious and causes vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
  • Norovirus and rotavirus are common culprits, with different symptoms and durations.
  • Prevention focuses on handwashing, cleaning, and safe food handling.
  • Treatment involves rest, hydration, and managing symptoms; seek medical attention for severe cases.
  • Vaccination is available for rotavirus but not norovirus.

Understanding Stomach Flu and Its Symptoms, Especially Vomiting

The “stomach flu” is a catch-all term for viral gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by various viruses. The most common culprits are norovirus and rotavirus. These viruses attack the lining of your digestive tract, leading to a range of unpleasant symptoms. While the exact symptoms can vary depending on the virus and the individual, vomiting is a frequent and often intense symptom.

Common Symptoms:

  • Vomiting: Often sudden and forceful, vomiting is a key indicator of stomach flu. It can range from a single episode to repeated bouts.
  • Nausea: A feeling of sickness and the urge to vomit usually precedes vomiting.
  • Watery Diarrhea: This is another common symptom, often accompanied by stomach cramps.
  • Stomach Pain or Cramps: Abdominal discomfort is a frequent complaint.
  • Low-Grade Fever: While not always present, a mild fever may accompany other symptoms.
  • Malaise: A general feeling of discomfort, fatigue, and weakness.
  • Muscle Aches or Headache: These symptoms may occur, adding to the overall unwell feeling.
  • Loss of Appetite: The thought of food may be unappealing due to nausea and stomach upset.

Norovirus vs. Rotavirus: While both cause viral gastroenteritis, there are some key differences. Rotavirus infections often start with fever and vomiting, followed by watery diarrhea lasting several days. Norovirus, often called the “winter vomiting bug,” typically begins 12-48 hours after exposure, with a sudden and severe onset of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea lasting 1-3 days.

Current Prevalence and Transmission of Stomach Flu Going Around

Stomach bugs, especially those causing significant vomiting, are prevalent throughout the year, but outbreaks tend to peak during the colder months (winter and spring). Norovirus, in particular, is exceptionally contagious, making it a significant concern in schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings.

Transmission Routes:

  • Close Contact: The virus spreads easily through close contact with an infected individual, either through direct contact or respiratory droplets from vomiting.
  • Contaminated Food or Water: Consuming food or water that has been contaminated with fecal matter can lead to infection.
  • Contaminated Surfaces: Norovirus is remarkably resilient and can survive on surfaces for days, even weeks. Touching a contaminated surface and then touching your mouth can transmit the virus.
  • Fecal-Oral Transmission: This is a significant route of transmission, especially in young children. Improper handwashing after using the toilet or changing diapers can easily spread the virus.

It’s crucial to remember that while gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can be associated with COVID-19, these are often accompanied by respiratory symptoms. If you have respiratory symptoms alongside gastrointestinal issues, testing for COVID-19 is advisable.

Complications and When to Seek Medical Attention for Stomach Flu Going Around

While most healthy adults recover from the stomach flu without medical intervention, complications can arise, primarily due to dehydration caused by the loss of fluids and electrolytes from vomiting and diarrhea.

Signs of Dehydration:

  • Decreased urination or dark-colored urine
  • Dry mouth and throat
  • Weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
  • Sunken eyes or cheeks
  • Lack of tears (in children)
  • Unusual sleepiness or fussiness (in children)

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Vomiting persists for more than 24 hours.
  • Diarrhea lasts more than two days (adults) or doesn’t improve after several days (children).
  • Blood is present in vomit or stool.
  • Severe dehydration is suspected.
  • High fever (over 102°F/38.9°C in children, or 104°F/40°C in adults) develops.
  • Severe stomach pain occurs.
  • Symptoms worsen or fail to improve after a few days.

Prevention and Treatment of Stomach Flu

Unfortunately, there’s no specific cure for viral gastroenteritis; antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing dehydration.

Prevention Strategies:

  • Handwashing: Meticulous handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is crucial, particularly after using the restroom, changing diapers, and before eating. Hand sanitizers are less effective against these viruses.
  • Cleaning and Disinfection: Use bleach-based disinfectants to clean contaminated surfaces, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens.
  • Safe Food Handling: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, cook food to the proper temperature, and avoid preparing food for others if you are sick.
  • Avoid Sharing: Don’t share eating utensils, drinking glasses, or towels with someone who is ill.
  • Vaccination: A rotavirus vaccine is recommended for infants and is highly effective in preventing rotavirus infection. No vaccine currently exists for norovirus.

Home Treatment:

  • Rest: Rest is essential to allow your body to fight the infection.
  • Hydration: Replace lost fluids and electrolytes by drinking plenty of clear fluids, such as water, clear broths, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) like Pedialyte. Older children and adults may use sports drinks.
  • Gradual Food Reintroduction: Once nausea subsides, start with bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
  • Avoid Irritating Foods: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and fatty or spicy foods until symptoms improve.
  • Over-the-Counter Medications: Adults may consider anti-diarrheal medications (like loperamide) or bismuth subsalicylate, but only if diarrhea is not bloody and fever is absent. Do not give these to children without consulting a doctor. Anti-nausea medications may be prescribed by a doctor for severe vomiting.

Conclusion: Protecting Yourself and Others from Stomach Flu Going Around

Stomach flu, particularly when accompanied by significant vomiting, can be disruptive and uncomfortable. However, by understanding its transmission, symptoms, and preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of infection and protect yourself and those around you. Remember, proper hygiene and prompt medical attention when necessary are crucial in managing this common but potentially serious illness.

Need Help Managing a Stomach Flu Outbreak in Your Workplace or Community?

Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive health and safety solutions, designed to help you mitigate the impact of illnesses like the stomach flu. We offer expert advice, preventative strategies, and support to keep your community healthy and productive. Link to Contact Us/Services Page

FAQ

This section will be populated with frequently asked questions and answers related to stomach flu.