Bloated Stomach with Flu: Understanding Causes and Concerns
What causes bloating during flu. How to differentiate between normal and concerning bloating. When should you seek medical attention for a bloated stomach with flu. What are the common remedies for bloating associated with flu.
The Connection Between Flu and Bloating: Unveiling the Mystery
Experiencing a bloated stomach during a bout of flu is a common occurrence that many individuals face. This uncomfortable sensation can add to the already distressing symptoms of influenza, leaving many to wonder about its significance. While bloating is often a benign symptom, it’s essential to understand its potential causes and implications, especially when coupled with flu.
Bloating during flu can be attributed to several factors, including:
- Dehydration due to fever and reduced fluid intake
- Changes in dietary habits while sick
- Decreased physical activity
- The body’s inflammatory response to the virus
Is bloating during flu a cause for alarm? Generally, bloating alone is not a significant concern when you have the flu. However, it’s crucial to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if bloating persists or is accompanied by severe pain, fever, or other worrying symptoms.
Decoding the Digestive Distress: Common Causes of Bloating
Understanding the typical causes of bloating can help you identify whether your symptoms are related to the flu or stem from other factors. Some common culprits behind bloating include:
- Consuming gas-producing foods
- Overeating or eating too quickly
- Swallowing air while eating or drinking
- Constipation
- Food intolerances or sensitivities
Can certain foods exacerbate bloating during flu? Indeed, some foods may worsen bloating when you’re ill. These typically include:
- Dairy products
- High-fiber vegetables
- Carbonated beverages
- Fatty or fried foods
Opting for easily digestible foods and staying hydrated can help alleviate bloating symptoms while you recover from the flu.
Flu-Related Bloating: When to Raise the Red Flag
While bloating during flu is often harmless, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Be vigilant for the following signs:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- High fever (above 103°F or 39.4°C)
- Signs of dehydration
- Bloody stools
Should you contact a doctor for every instance of bloating with flu? Not necessarily. Most cases of flu-related bloating resolve on their own as you recover. However, if symptoms persist beyond a week or worsen significantly, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
Navigating the Path to Relief: Effective Remedies for Flu-Induced Bloating
Alleviating bloating while battling the flu can significantly improve your comfort and overall well-being. Consider these practical remedies:
- Stay hydrated with clear fluids
- Consume smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid gas-producing foods
- Try gentle abdominal massages
- Use over-the-counter gas relief medications (consult your doctor first)
Are there any natural remedies for flu-related bloating? Yes, several natural approaches may help:
- Peppermint or ginger tea
- Probiotics to support gut health
- Light exercise, such as walking, when you feel up to it
- Deep breathing exercises to relax abdominal muscles
Remember to listen to your body and avoid any activities that cause discomfort or exacerbate your flu symptoms.
The Immune System’s Role: How Flu Affects Digestive Function
The influenza virus not only impacts your respiratory system but can also influence your digestive tract. Understanding this connection can shed light on why bloating occurs during flu:
- Inflammation: The body’s immune response can cause inflammation in the gut
- Altered gut microbiome: Flu can disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in your digestive system
- Reduced digestive efficiency: Your body diverts energy to fight the virus, potentially slowing digestion
Does the flu virus directly attack the digestive system? While influenza primarily targets the respiratory system, some strains can affect the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which may contribute to bloating.
Distinguishing Flu-Related Bloating from Other Gastrointestinal Issues
It’s crucial to differentiate between bloating caused by flu and other potential gastrointestinal problems. Here are some key distinctions:
- Duration: Flu-related bloating typically subsides as you recover from the virus
- Associated symptoms: Flu bloating is often accompanied by other flu symptoms like fever and body aches
- Intensity: Bloating from flu is usually mild to moderate, whereas other GI issues may cause more severe distension
How can you tell if your bloating is due to flu or food poisoning? Food poisoning often causes more severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including intense abdominal cramps, frequent diarrhea, and vomiting. Flu-related bloating is typically milder and accompanied by respiratory symptoms.
Prevention Strategies: Minimizing Bloating During Flu Recovery
While you can’t always prevent bloating during flu, certain strategies can help minimize its occurrence and severity:
- Maintain proper hydration
- Eat small, balanced meals
- Avoid foods known to cause gas
- Incorporate probiotic-rich foods or supplements
- Practice good hygiene to prevent secondary infections
Can certain flu medications contribute to bloating? Some flu medications, particularly those containing decongestants or pain relievers, may cause digestive side effects, including bloating. If you notice increased bloating after starting a new medication, consult your healthcare provider for alternatives.
The Role of Hydration in Combating Flu-Related Bloating
Proper hydration is crucial when dealing with flu and its associated symptoms, including bloating. Here’s why staying hydrated is so important:
- Helps flush out toxins from the body
- Supports optimal digestive function
- Prevents constipation, which can exacerbate bloating
- Assists in maintaining electrolyte balance
What are the best fluids to consume when dealing with flu-related bloating? Opt for clear, non-carbonated fluids such as water, herbal teas, and clear broths. These can help hydrate you without contributing to additional gas or bloating.
The Impact of Stress on Digestive Health During Flu
Dealing with the flu can be stressful, and this stress can further impact your digestive system. Consider the following points:
- Stress can slow digestion, potentially leading to bloating
- Anxiety about illness may cause you to swallow more air, exacerbating bloating
- Stress hormones can affect gut motility and sensitivity
How can you manage stress to reduce bloating during flu? Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga (if you feel up to it). Ensuring adequate rest and seeking support from friends and family can also help manage stress levels during illness.
The Importance of Post-Flu Gut Care
As you recover from the flu, paying attention to your gut health can help resolve lingering bloating and prevent future digestive issues. Consider these tips:
- Gradually reintroduce a varied, nutrient-rich diet
- Consider taking a probiotic supplement to restore gut flora
- Stay hydrated and maintain good eating habits
- Monitor your digestive health and report any persistent issues to your doctor
How long should you expect digestive symptoms to persist after flu? Most people find that their digestive system returns to normal within a week or two after recovering from the flu. If symptoms persist beyond this timeframe, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
Understanding the Relationship Between Flu Vaccines and Digestive Health
Many people wonder about the potential impact of flu vaccines on their digestive system, including the likelihood of experiencing bloating. Here’s what you need to know:
- Flu vaccines typically do not cause significant digestive side effects
- Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms after vaccination, but these are usually short-lived
- The benefits of flu vaccination generally outweigh the risk of minor side effects
Can flu vaccines help prevent flu-related bloating? While flu vaccines primarily aim to prevent or reduce the severity of flu infections, by doing so, they may indirectly help prevent flu-related digestive symptoms, including bloating. However, they do not directly target or prevent bloating as a symptom.
The Role of Probiotics in Managing Flu-Related Digestive Issues
Probiotics, known for their positive impact on gut health, may play a beneficial role in managing digestive symptoms during and after flu. Consider the following points:
- Probiotics can help restore balance to the gut microbiome disrupted by illness
- Certain probiotic strains may help reduce the duration and severity of flu symptoms
- Probiotic-rich foods or supplements may aid in preventing secondary digestive issues
What are the best sources of probiotics during flu recovery? Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut are excellent natural sources of probiotics. If consuming these foods is difficult during illness, probiotic supplements may be a suitable alternative. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially when ill.
Exploring the Connection Between Flu, Bloating, and Dietary Choices
Your dietary choices during flu can significantly impact your digestive comfort, including the likelihood of experiencing bloating. Consider these factors:
- Bland, easily digestible foods are often recommended during flu recovery
- Certain traditional “comfort foods” may exacerbate bloating
- Maintaining adequate nutrition is crucial for immune function and recovery
What are some flu-friendly foods that may help reduce bloating? Consider incorporating these options into your diet:
- Bone broth or clear soups
- Steamed vegetables
- Lean proteins like chicken or fish
- Bananas and other easily digestible fruits
- Rice or other simple carbohydrates
Remember to introduce foods gradually as your appetite returns and to stay attuned to your body’s responses.
The Importance of Rest and Sleep in Managing Flu-Related Digestive Symptoms
Adequate rest and quality sleep play crucial roles in your body’s ability to fight the flu virus and manage associated symptoms, including digestive issues. Consider these points:
- Sleep supports immune function, aiding in faster recovery
- Rest allows your body to divert energy to healing and digestion
- Poor sleep can exacerbate stress, potentially worsening bloating and other digestive symptoms
How can you improve sleep quality while dealing with flu and bloating? Try these strategies:
- Create a comfortable sleep environment
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Avoid screens before bedtime
- Use extra pillows to elevate your head, which may help with congestion and reduce the likelihood of acid reflux
By prioritizing rest and sleep, you support your body’s natural healing processes and may find relief from flu-related bloating more quickly.
Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Repeated Flu Infections on Digestive Health
While most people recover fully from flu without lasting effects, repeated or severe flu infections may have implications for long-term digestive health. Consider these points:
- Frequent infections may disrupt the gut microbiome over time
- Repeated use of certain flu medications could impact digestive function
- Chronic stress from recurrent illness may affect overall gut health
How can you protect your digestive health if you’re prone to frequent flu infections? Consider these strategies:
- Prioritize preventive measures like annual flu vaccinations
- Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system
- Consider regular probiotic supplementation (under medical guidance)
- Stay vigilant about hand hygiene and other infection prevention practices
By taking proactive steps to prevent flu infections and maintain gut health, you can minimize the potential long-term impact on your digestive system.
Is Bloating a Cause for Concern?
We’ve all had that bloated, uncomfortable “full belly” feeling at some point. Most of the time, it’s perfectly normal and no cause for concern. On rare occasions, it could be an indication of a more serious problem. Unless your bloating is accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and weight loss, it’s probably nothing to worry about. Most of the time, diet and other simple reasons such as eating a big meal or too much salt can explain the bloating you’re experiencing. Let’s discuss some common causes of bloating, and when bloating can be a cause for concern.
Common Causes of Bloating
The following are some common reasons why you might feel bloated. In most instances, these causes of bloating can be reduced or eliminated by practical diet and lifestyle changes.
– Healthy eating. Believe it or not, healthy foods are the reason for a bloated stomach. Whole veggies such as cabbage, brussel sprouts, and carrots; and legumes such as beans, can cause extra air to get trapped in your belly, giving you that uncomfortable and bloated feeling. Foods high in fiber and lactose can also cause bloating since they release hydrogen and methane, which are bloating gases. Certain fruits like apples, pears, and watermelon can also cause bloating because of the high ratio of fructose to glucose.
– Consuming diet products. Sugar substitutes (otherwise known as sugar alcohols) found in many diet foods, such as sorbitol and xylitol) can cause you to feel bloated and uncomfortable. Ingesting too much of these or any artificial substances can cause bloating.
– Fizzy drinks. Bubbly drinks like soda, champagne, or seltzer can do a number on your stomach because of the carbonation. When you ingest these drinks, the bubbles expand in your gut, which leads to that bloated feeling. This is also true of popular probiotic, naturally fermented drinks like kombucha, which can cause gas, bloating and loose stools.
– Constipation. We’ve all experienced that terrible feeling of not being able to go to the bathroom. When you get backed up, it is usually accompanied by gas. The gas in your belly can leave your feeling bloated and heavy.
– Stress. When you’re stressed out, your body experiences physical symptoms that can have an effect on your GI tract and lead to bloating. For example, heavy breathing makes you swallow more air than normal, which leave you feeling bloated. When your heart races, your body diverts blood away from the GI tract, which then slows down your digestion.
– Lack of exercise. It may be difficult to think about exercising when you’re feeling bloated. However, exercise is a great way to prevent or overcome bloating. If you find yourself bloated, it may mean you’re not getting enough exercise. When you do physical activity, it stimulates the muscles of the digestive tract which, in turn, helps the food and air bubbles pass through your GI tract more easily.
– Recovery from a stomach bug. Many people experience bloating after having a stomach virus or bug. This’s because of the bacterial overgrowth that occurred in the small intestine as a result of the infection.
When Bloating Is a Sign of Something More Serious
Each of the previous reasons for bloating can be overcome through diet, exercise, and mindful living. Although not as common, bloating may be an indication of a more serious condition that requires medical attention. The following are three conditions and what to look for.
– Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a disorder that causes a change in bowel habits such as constipation, diarrhea, or both. These changes can cause stomach pain. If you are diagnosed with IBS, you’re not alone – according to the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders, 10-15 percent of Americans have IBS. If you notice these symptoms or think you have IBS, see your doctor.
– Crohn’s Disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can cause bloating. It is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and/or fever. If you experience a combination of these symptoms, visit your doctor to get tested for Crohn’s disease.
– Cancer. Don’t panic! Most of the time bloating is a result of something very treatable. However, in rare cases, it can be a sign of a more serious illness such as cancer. If your bloating is combined with symptoms such as blood in the stool and weight loss, you may want to see your doctor who can check you for pancreatic or stomach cancer (or ovarian cancer in women).
Don’t let bloating ruin your life. Let the gastro experts at Austin Gastroenterology help you get to the bottom of your bloating issues. We serve patients at 18 offices throughout the greater Austin area. You can make an appointment using our online form or call the number associated with the office you’d like to visit.
Bloated Stomach and Other Symptoms of Norovirus
There is a sinister bug that gets its kicks during the winter months. Sometimes referred to as the “winter vomiting bug,” norovirus can strike at any time of year but we always see an uptick of cases in the winter months. The norovirus is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis around the world. It spreads easily from person to person, from consuming contaminated food or drink, or through contact with a contaminated surface. The symptoms can take hold within 12 to 48 hours after exposure, so staying vigilant is critical as we start heading into colder months.
Norovirus Symptoms
Noroviruses thrive in close quarters, like restaurants, day-cares, and nursing homes, and can survive extreme temperatures. This is one of the reasons it flourishes in the winter because we are all typically packed together to avoid the cold or reuniting in groups for the holidays. The virus works so quickly that you can go from feeling just fine one moment to suffering symptoms in the next. Look for these warning signs:
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
- Loss of taste
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Bloated stomach
- Low-grade fever
While most of these symptoms are not lethal, symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting can deplete your body of vital fluids that keep it functioning normally. Dehydration can be a symptom of your symptoms, so it is important to stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes. Since norovirus’s shelf life is typically one to three days, you should see your doctor if symptoms continue afterwards and if your vomit is green or yellow, as this could be a sign of a bowel obstruction.
Treatment and Prevention for Norovirus
Unfortunately, like other viruses, noroviruses do not respond to antibiotics, which are designed to kill bacteria. There are no antiviral drugs that can treat the norovirus. Standard treatment of norovirus includes plenty of rest, hydration, and isolation from others so you do not spread the sickness. After three days, your symptoms should start dropping off, but remember to see a doctor if they persist.
In the meantime, you can—and should—practice these basic preventatives to shield you and others:
- Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing a baby’s diaper, or before preparing or eating food
- Carefully throw away any contaminated items, like dirty diapers
- Wash all produce thoroughly
- Cook oysters or any shellfish before consuming
- Keep surfaces clean and disinfected.
- Make sure you clean any surfaces with a mixture of detergent and chlorine bleach after someone has been sick
- Do not prepare food for at least two to three days after you are feeling better to prevent spreading the virus
- Avoid any food that has been prepared by someone who was sick
‘Tis the Season
Practicing basic prevention and good hygiene can protect you and those around you. Stay mindful this holiday season to avoid spreading or catching this short-lived but miserable bug. We all want to see our families after a long year but doing so sick or getting sick in the process will put a damper on those holiday reunions. And remember! “Jingle Bells” is 20 seconds long and gives you something festive to hum while doing your part to prevent germs from spreading.
If you have norovirus, are exhibiting any of its symptoms, or think you have been exposed to norovirus, call the team at the BASS Medical Group. Our doctors have experience treating norovirus symptoms and can recommend the best treatment for you. Call (925) 350-4044 or visit bassmedicalgroup.com to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors today.
Experts told whether it is possible to distinguish “Omicron” from SARS – Moscow 24, 02/21/2022
February 21, 2022, 18:39 Despite this, some Muscovites, in anticipation of spring, have already taken out demi-season jackets from the wardrobe and changed into sneakers. However, experts warn that it is too early to relax, as respiratory diseases tend to revive during the transition period. In addition, there is still a risk of contracting COVID-19. We find out whether it is possible to distinguish the symptoms of coronavirus from SARS.
ARVI symptoms
Photo: depositphotos/AndrewLozovyi
General practitioner, immunologist Irina Yartseva told Moscow 24 that ARVI includes more than 200 different groups of viruses that have similar symptoms. According to her, among the signs of the disease may be a runny nose, dry cough, sore throat, fever, headache, loose stools, bloating and other ailments.
Infection is transmitted by airborne droplets. Being close to an infected person, depending on the state of the immune system, a person gets sick or not, the doctor explained. At the same time, the flu, which also belongs to SARS, unlike other viruses, can have more serious consequences for the patient in terms of complications, the expert pointed out.
“Patients with diseases of the cardiovascular system, with congenital heart disease, especially in case of high temperature, intoxication, are at risk. The influenza virus is cardiotoxic. And it is advisable for this group to be vaccinated,” Yartseva said.
Professor of Virology, Head of the Laboratory of Especially Dangerous Infections of the Federal Research Center for Fundamental and Translational Medicine (FRC FTM) Alexander Chepurnov, in a conversation with Moscow 24, noted that odors can disappear not only with coronavirus, but also with colds. Therefore, it is possible to determine the pathogen only with the help of medical research, he believes.
Odor loss is not an invention of COVID-19. So there will always be doubt. Only differential diagnosis associated with laboratory methods will give confidence what it is.
Alexander Chepurnov
Professor of Virology
The specialist added that ARVI is no less dangerous than COVID-19. According to him, the mortality rate for influenza is 0.01-0.2%, and for coronavirus – 2%.
Symptoms of Omicron
Photo: depositphotos/dmitrytph
Experts have determined that vaccinated patients infected with Omicron experience fatigue, runny nose, cough, headache and muscle pain, sneezing, fever and sore throat. In addition, some have shortness of breath, loss of taste, smell and appetite.
The experts also found that “Omicron” can disrupt the gastrointestinal tract. Gastrointestinal symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, heartburn, bloating, nausea, and vomiting.
In some cases, hyperesthesia or hypersensitivity occurs with Omicron. This was warned by a neurologist and chiropractor Alexander Evdokimov.
When covid it is bright. “Omicron” multiplies unusually fast. Due to this, apparently, it quickly fills all the fluids and spaces of a person and causes a toxic effect on the nerve endings. However, the temperature is not always high.
Alexander Evdokimov
neurologist and chiropractor
The specialist added that with a new mutation of the coronavirus, pressure jumps are also observed, which increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Is it possible to distinguish “Omicron” from ARVI
Photo: depositphotos/dmitrytph
Tatyana Ruzhentsova, deputy director for clinical work of the Gabrichevsky Research Institute of Epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor, said that it is possible to accurately identify which virus a person has contracted only with the help of special tests . According to her, “Omicron” and other respiratory viruses have the same symptoms.
Influenza often causes a rapid increase in body temperature, headaches, from the second day – pain or sore throat. But the same symptoms can be caused by Omicron. For seasonal respiratory infections, a runny nose and a slight increase in body temperature are more typical. But the same thing can be observed in some patients with both coronavirus infection and influenza.
Tatyana Ruzhentsova
Deputy Director for Clinical Work of the Research Institute of Epidemiology named after Gabrichevsky Rospotrebnadzor
According to Irina Yartseva, in addition to common symptoms, viruses also have similar methods of treatment.
“Omicron has the same symptoms as SARS, and it is treated in the same way. I do not see the need to distinguish Omicron from another virus, because it is still a mild course of coronavirus. But if these are elderly people and hitherto unvaccinated, then any virus can lead to a permanent decline in immunity,” she said.
Prevention of all infections
Photo: depositphotos/2s
In order not to become infected with any of the viruses during the transition period, experts recommend maintaining a balance of sleep, nutrition and sports, as well as following all anti-covid measures. Alexander Chepurnov reminded that the situation with COVID-19 is most smoothed out by vaccination, wearing masks and frequent hand washing.
Irina Yartseva added that during the transition from winter to spring, the immune system experiences a great load in the form of adaptation, so it is very important to support your own body, first of all, get enough sleep.
We are now experiencing a shortening of the night and an increase in daylight hours, and this is a climate change, which is an adaptive burden for the immune system. Therefore, the task is to adapt to these regimes. It turns out that the more time a person devotes to sleep, the easier it is for him to adapt to changes.
Irina Yartseva
therapist
The doctor also pointed out that it is important to eat a varied diet and not forget about physical activity. In particular, it is desirable that seasonal fruits and vegetables be included in the diet. In addition, it is necessary to drink more fluids and monitor the humidification of the air in the premises, she reminded.
According to the expert, heating causes the air to become very dry, resulting in dryness of the nasal mucosa. “If the nasal mucosa is well hydrated, then the risks of the disease are less,” the therapist emphasized.
Yartseva also noted that vitamin D can be taken to strengthen the immune system during the transition period. However, before starting the course, it is imperative to consult a specialist on this issue, she concluded.
Khalidova Albika
society
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Intestinal flu
According to American doctors, abdominal pain can be caused by an infection, the so-called Norovirus. The stomach virus is spreading from California to the Carolinas during the December-January holidays, making this New Year’s Eve more unpleasant than ever.
The main cause is infectious gastroenteritis, better known as intestinal flu, caused by Norovirus. Cases of the disease occurred every winter, but such a number of cases had not been observed before. San Quentin Federal Penitentiary was closed to new inmates and visitors last week after more than 500 inmates and guards fell ill with the same symptoms – nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, headaches and low temperatures. Similar symptoms have been seen in nursing home staff and patients in several states. College sports schools skipped competitions. Hundreds of patients have been seeking help in hospital emergency rooms since mid-December. About 400 people on a Caribbean cruise last month and 700 people on a transatlantic cruise in November had similar symptoms, according to press reports.
Norovirus infection usually appears 2-3 days after infection. Vomiting can be repeated up to 20 times a day. Norovirus is spread through contaminated food or water and causes severe consequences. Half of those infected were infected through food. But this year, the disease is spread by person-to-person contact. It stays on surfaces for several days, such as: children’s toys, keyboards, phones, door handles and buttons, and of course, the most dangerous infectious agent is vomit and stool. The virus is found in the stool for up to 3 weeks after a person has recovered. Therefore, doctors especially insist on thorough hand washing, especially after using the toilet and before preparing food. The virus causes illness all year round, but especially during the colder months, why it has spread so widely this year is unknown.
There are 30-40 virus subtypes. Unlike many bacteria and viruses, Norovirus cannot grow in normal environments and can only be detected through special expensive tests (PCR) taken from stool, vomit and environmental washings. Because most people recover at home without medical care, many cases go undiagnosed. The transferred disease does not protect against subsequent infection. A person develops immunity to the 1st group of the virus, and he becomes infected with another. Some are inherently resistant to Norovirus. To cause illness, the virus binds to receptors in the gut. But there are people who do not have these receptors – therefore, they cannot get sick. There are groups of people getting the virus, spreading it, but not getting sick. Some studies suggest that people with blood type “B” are resistant to infection and disease, but why is a mystery.
Norovirus is very resistant. It survives freezing and heating 140*. There is no vaccine and antibiotics do not work against the virus. The disease develops suddenly, 12-48 hours after contact with the virus. If you are caring for someone who is ill, wear gloves and a mask when you clean up stools, destroy used tissues, and disinfect surfaces using bleach solutions. Be aware that vomiting can release the virus into the air. Wash clothes and bedding in hot water and iron with a hot iron. Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds. with water and soap. Gels containing alcohol are not effective. Make sure that the patient does not become dehydrated. This can be difficult with vomiting, but even a tablespoon of water every minute may be enough. After recovery, (the virus persists for 3 days), continue to thoroughly wash your hands after going to the toilet and clean surfaces.