What are the key differences between stomach flu and food poisoning. How long do symptoms typically last for each condition. What are the most effective treatments for gastroenteritis and foodborne illness. When should you seek medical attention for severe gastrointestinal symptoms.

Distinguishing Between Stomach Flu and Food Poisoning

Abdominal discomfort, fever, and gas are common symptoms that can indicate various gastrointestinal issues. Two frequently confused conditions are stomach flu and food poisoning. While they share similarities, understanding their differences is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Stomach flu, medically known as viral gastroenteritis, is caused by viruses. Food poisoning, on the other hand, results from consuming food or drinks contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. The duration of these conditions also differs – stomach flu can persist for several days, while food poisoning typically resolves within 24-48 hours.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Cause: Stomach flu – viruses; Food poisoning – bacteria, viruses, or parasites
• Duration: Stomach flu – up to 10 days; Food poisoning – usually 1-2 days
• Onset: Stomach flu – 24-48 hours after exposure; Food poisoning – 2-6 hours after consuming contaminated food
• Contagiousness: Stomach flu – highly contagious; Food poisoning – not contagious person-to-person

Prevalence and Impact of Gastrointestinal Illnesses

Both stomach flu and food poisoning are extremely common ailments affecting millions of people annually. According to the US Department of Health & Human Services, approximately 48 million cases of foodborne illnesses occur each year in the United States. This staggering statistic translates to about 1 in 6 Americans experiencing a food-related illness annually.

The high prevalence of these conditions underscores the importance of understanding their symptoms, causes, and appropriate treatments. By recognizing the signs early, individuals can take prompt action to alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.

Decoding Stomach Flu: Symptoms and Duration

Stomach flu, or viral gastroenteritis, is an intestinal infection that can cause significant discomfort. The symptoms can vary in intensity from person to person and typically develop within a day or as quickly as two to three hours after exposure to the virus.

Common Symptoms of Stomach Flu

• Nausea and vomiting
• Watery diarrhea
• Low-grade fever
• Abdominal pain and cramping

Are you experiencing persistent diarrhea? If it lasts more than three days or you notice blood in your stool, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms could indicate a more severe condition requiring professional intervention.

The duration of stomach flu can vary, but it typically lasts between 1 to 10 days. Most people start feeling better after a few days, but in some cases, symptoms may persist longer. During this time, it’s essential to stay hydrated and rest to support your body’s recovery process.

Unraveling Food Poisoning: Symptoms and Timeline

Food poisoning is a broad term encompassing illnesses caused by consuming contaminated food or drinks. The symptoms can be similar to those of stomach flu, but there are some distinct characteristics to be aware of.

Telltale Signs of Food Poisoning

• Bloating and gas
• Fever (potentially higher than with stomach flu)
• Muscle aches
• Weakness
• Sharp, stabbing abdominal pain

Do you have a fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C) accompanying your gastrointestinal symptoms? This could be a sign of severe food poisoning, and you should seek medical attention promptly to prevent dehydration and other complications.

Food poisoning typically has a rapid onset, with symptoms appearing 2 to 6 hours after consuming contaminated food or drinks. Most cases resolve within 24 to 48 hours, making it generally shorter-lived than stomach flu.

The Importance of Proper Diagnosis

While stomach flu and food poisoning share many symptoms, accurately distinguishing between the two is crucial for appropriate treatment and management. The primary indicator often lies in the timing of symptom onset.

Viral stomach flu typically has an incubation period of 24-48 hours after exposure to the virus. In contrast, food poisoning symptoms appear much more rapidly, usually within 2-6 hours of consuming contaminated food.

Another key difference is the duration of symptoms. Stomach flu can last up to 10 days in more severe cases, while food poisoning usually resolves within 1-2 days. Understanding these distinctions can help individuals make informed decisions about when to seek medical attention and how to manage their symptoms effectively.

Treatment Approaches for Stomach Flu and Food Poisoning

The treatment approaches for stomach flu and food poisoning share some similarities, primarily focusing on managing symptoms and preventing complications. However, there are some differences in how these conditions are addressed.

Managing Stomach Flu

1. Rest and hydration: Drink plenty of clear fluids to replace lost electrolytes
2. Gradual reintroduction of food: Start with bland, easily digestible foods
3. Over-the-counter medications: Antiemetics for nausea, antidiarrheals if necessary
4. Probiotics: May help restore balance to gut bacteria

Treating Food Poisoning

1. Hydration: Replace lost fluids and electrolytes
2. Rest: Allow your body to focus on fighting the infection
3. Avoid certain foods: Stay away from dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty or spicy foods
4. Medications: Antibiotics may be prescribed in severe cases of bacterial food poisoning

Is it necessary to take antibiotics for every case of food poisoning? No, antibiotics are only prescribed in specific cases of bacterial food poisoning and are not effective against viral causes. Most cases of food poisoning resolve on their own with proper rest and hydration.

Prevention Strategies for Gastrointestinal Illnesses

While it’s not always possible to avoid stomach flu or food poisoning entirely, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting these illnesses.

Preventing Stomach Flu

• Practice good hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoid close contact with infected individuals
• Disinfect surfaces regularly, especially in shared spaces
• Get vaccinated against rotavirus, a common cause of stomach flu in children

Avoiding Food Poisoning

• Cook foods thoroughly, especially meats and eggs
• Wash fruits and vegetables before consumption
• Store foods at proper temperatures
• Avoid cross-contamination during food preparation
• Be cautious when eating out, especially in areas with questionable food safety standards

Can proper food handling completely eliminate the risk of food poisoning? While proper food handling significantly reduces the risk, it cannot guarantee 100% prevention. Factors such as contamination at the source or during transportation can still pose risks.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Both stomach flu and food poisoning can usually be managed at home with rest and proper hydration. However, there are instances when medical attention becomes necessary.

Red Flags for Stomach Flu

• Inability to keep liquids down for 24 hours
• Vomiting blood
• Bloody stools
• Fever above 104°F (40°C)
• Signs of severe dehydration (excessive thirst, dry mouth, little or no urination, severe weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness)

Warning Signs for Food Poisoning

• Frequent vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down
• Bloody vomit or stools
• Diarrhea lasting more than three days
• Extreme pain or severe abdominal cramping
• An oral temperature higher than 101.5°F (38.6°C)
• Signs of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, little or no urination, severe weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Neurological symptoms, such as blurry vision, muscle weakness, or tingling in the arms

How quickly should you seek medical attention if you experience these warning signs? If you notice any of these severe symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical care immediately. Prompt treatment can prevent complications and ensure a faster recovery.

Long-term Impact and Complications

While most cases of stomach flu and food poisoning resolve without long-term consequences, in some instances, these illnesses can lead to complications or have lasting effects.

Potential Complications of Stomach Flu

• Severe dehydration
• Malnutrition (especially in prolonged cases)
• Reactive arthritis (in rare cases)

Possible Long-term Effects of Food Poisoning

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Reactive arthritis
• Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in severe E. coli infections
• Guillain-Barré syndrome (in rare cases of Campylobacter infection)

Can gastrointestinal illnesses lead to chronic health issues? While most people recover fully from stomach flu and food poisoning, in some cases, these illnesses can trigger long-term health problems. It’s essential to monitor your health after recovery and consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent symptoms.

Advancements in Diagnosis and Treatment

Medical science continues to evolve, bringing new developments in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal illnesses. These advancements are improving our ability to differentiate between various causes of stomach distress and provide more targeted treatments.

Innovative Diagnostic Tools

• Rapid stool tests for specific pathogens
• Advanced imaging techniques for visualizing the gastrointestinal tract
• Genetic testing to identify susceptibility to certain foodborne illnesses

Emerging Treatment Options

• Targeted probiotic therapies
• Novel antiviral medications for viral gastroenteritis
• Immunotherapies for preventing and treating severe food poisoning

How are these advancements changing the landscape of gastrointestinal illness management? These innovations are enabling faster, more accurate diagnoses and more effective, personalized treatments. This progress is particularly crucial for vulnerable populations, such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

As research continues, we can expect even more sophisticated tools and treatments to emerge, further improving our ability to combat stomach flu, food poisoning, and other gastrointestinal ailments. Staying informed about these developments can help individuals make better decisions about their health and seek appropriate care when needed.

Stomach Flu vs. Food Poisoning

Stomach Flu or Food Poisoning: What’s the Difference?

Abdominal pains, fever, and gas are common signs of many conditions, including both the stomach flu and food poisoning. The two are commonly confused. The stomach flu and food poisoning are two different conditions. 

A virus causes the stomach flu, but food poisoning is caused by bacteria, viruses, or other parasites. The former can last for days, but food poisoning usually only takes one day. Both are extremely common. The US Department of Health & Human Services estimates that there are about 48 million cases of foodborne illnesses annually, which equates to 1 in 6 Americans having a food-related illness.

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Although they share similar symptoms, there are differences to be aware of between the two. The signs and symptoms of the stomach flu can vary greatly from person to person and naturally develop within a day or as fast as two to three hours. Understanding the differences between stomach flu vs. food poisoning can ensure you take the right steps towards recovery as well as speed up doctor visits.

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What Is the Stomach Flu?

The phrase “stomach flu” does not necessarily make it the flu. It is not caused by the influenza virus, like most upper respiratory problems such as in your nose, throat, and lungs, and should not be confused with the “seasonal flu.” 

The medical term for the common stomach flu is “viral gastroenteritis.”

Stomach Flu Symptoms

Viral gastroenteritis is an intestinal infection associated with these symptoms:

• Nausea or vomiting: Your body recognizes the illness as a poison, so it reacts to the discomfort by vomiting.

• Watery diarrhea: Severe dehydration can also yield dark or decreased urine. Keep track of how long you have been having diarrhea if it has been more than three days, and see a doctor immediately if you have blood in your stool.

• Low-grade fever: A fever is the immune system’s attempt to combat illness such as viruses and bacteria infection. By heating up the body, fevers create an environment that tackles temperature-sensitive agents.

• Abdominal pain and cramping: A stomach bug can produce moderate pain.

How Long Does the Stomach Flu Last? 

The stomach flu usually starts one to three days after exposure and can take up to 10 days to fully heal. 

You may also be wondering how long the stomach flu is contagious? The stomach flu is highly contagious, and the length of that will depend on the type of virus that caused the infection. You are still contagious for up to three days after recovery in some cases. 

Read: How Long Does the Stomach Flu Last?

What Is Food Poisoning?

Food poisoning is an extensive term for some type of bacteria that has affected you. 

Food Poisoning Symptoms

Your immune system induces food poisoning to expel the illness and can present the following symptoms:

• Bloating and gas: Passing gas clears gas from the digestive tract, but lingering gas stuck in the tract can cause pain.

• Fever: You should see a doctor immediately when above 101.5 F to avoid severe dehydration.

• Muscle aches: Certain bacteria such as Staphloccus aureus and Campylobacter jejuni cause muscle pains. Inflammatory responses or irregular blood supply cause these pains.

• Weakness: Your body devotes a lot of energy to fight off the illness, and the loss of calories and electrolytes can make you feel weak.

• Abdominal pain and cramping: Your illness’s primary source is in your stomach region, so this area could experience mild to moderate discomfort. Although a stomach bug is a more general discomfort, food poisoning will yield a sharp stabbing pain.

How Long Does Food Poisoning Last? 

Food poisoning has a rapid onset of symptoms, usually appearing two to six hours after eating contaminated food or drinks. It may last up to 48 hours, but can sometimes resolve itself within 24 hours. 

How Do I Know If It’s a Stomach Virus or Food Poisoning?

Although the symptoms of stomach flu and food poisoning can overlap, the primary indicator of which you have will be the timing of symptoms.  

Viral stomach flu will incubate for roughly 24-48 hours after exposure to the virus, whereas food poisoning will be much faster at 2-6 hours after eating contaminated food. Many cases of the stomach flu resolve in a few days, with more prolonged cases lasting up to 10 days. Most food poisoning cases last only for a day or two.

Read: Nausea Treatment Online

How to Prevent Food Poisoning and the Stomach Flu

Both food poisoning and stomach flu are best cured by preventative methods instead of recovery after the fact.

Preventing food poisoning can be difficult, but there are a few steps that can help. Since you are just as likely to get it from your kitchen as you are at an outside restaurant, you can take the following steps to avoid serious illnesses:

• Wash your hands, so you do not bring unnecessary agents into your kitchen and do not mix foods

• Keep your kitchen clean in case your utensils have come into contact with other foods conducive to viral growth

• Be careful of raw meat and cook it properly, so you do not get sick

• Do not consume expired food even if the food looks and smells fine, as you should respect the “use by” date to be careful of all of the harmful microscopic organisms.

• Be mindful of your leftovers in case they have been left outside of proper refrigeration for too long or have already expired

If you are dining with street food such as at food trucks, you should be mindful of exploring street food without the perils as sanitary food preparation is key to avoid food poisoning.

Since the stomach flu is contagious, you can prevent exposure to it with the following:

• Practice proper hand hygiene

• Keep your kitchen clean

• Do not prepare foods while infected

• Avoid contact with the infected

Make sure to practice these precautions even if you feel fine as you are contagious for approximately three days after recovery.

Even with safe practices and regulations in place, such as mandated hand washing and kitchen inspections, it is essential for you to recognize stomach pains and how to best take the appropriate steps for your recovery.

What to Do If You Have the Stomach Flu or Food Poisoning?

Although most cases can be treated at home with lots of fluid with electrolytes and rest, severe symptoms such as diarrhea spanning several days and high fevers should not be overlooked.

Your body is actively fighting off the causes of your pain, so take it easy while you recover. While in recovery, you should take the necessary precautions to avoid spreading the infection:

• Wash your hands in warm, soapy water for at least 20 to 30 seconds

• Avoid sharing your food or drink to prevent spreading the illness to others

• Take time off from school or work to allow the illness to heal

Stomach Flu and Food Poisoning Treatment

While your body is in recovery, you should be taking it easy. If you are keeping food down, you should follow a simple diet of bananas, rice, apple sauce, and toast (sometimes called BRAT) in addition to liquids that are heavy in electrolytes such as a sports drink. It is vital for your health to maintain a good diet while in recovery mode to replace some of the calories and electrolytes you’re losing.  

Like most recoveries, you should avoid alcohol, caffeine, and dairy if you are sensitive to these groups. Similarly, like most illnesses, the pregnant, young, and elderly are more prone and should be extra careful when monitoring recovery.

Food Poisoning Remedies

Since the stomach flu is viral, it cannot be treated with antibiotics. Instead, it is possible to use over-the-counter (OTC) medicines to alleviate the symptoms of the stomach flu and food poisoning, such as ibuprofen and Tylenol for fevers as well as aches. These kinds of medications can be taxing on kidneys due to dehydration and should be monitored carefully with food as well as proper fluid intake to keep your body hydrated.

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When to Contact a Doctor

Regarding your diagnosis of the stomach flu vs. food poisoning, a doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. Your doctor may also take a stool sample to check for key signs such as blood or a noticeable bacteria count.

If you exhibit any symptoms of the stomach flu or food poisoning for more than a prolonged period of time, then you should make an appointment with your doctor, who can tell you about the difference between food poisoning and stomach flu.

If you are an adult, then you should contact your doctor when you are:

• Not able to keep liquids down for more than 24 hours

• Vomiting for more than two days

• Vomiting blood

• Experiencing excess dehydration such as darker urine and a dry mouth

• Noticing blood in your stool

• Experiencing a fever above 102 °F for at least a few days

If you are a parent and feel that your child is exhibiting symptoms, you should immediately consult with your doctor. Although most cases of either illness are not fatal, extra caution should be used when examining those who are young, elderly, or pregnant.

If you experience any of the symptoms above, click here to book a virtual appointment with a top U.S. doctor at PlushCare today.

Read More About Stomach Flu vs. Food Poisoning

• Get Stomach Flu Treatment Online

• How do I get a doctor’s note for work or school?

• Food Poisoning Treatment

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.

• Food Safety.gov. Food Poisoning. Accessed February 17, 2021, at https://www.foodsafety.gov/food-poisoning

• Keck Medicine of USC. Is It the Stomach Flu or Food Poisoning?. Accessed February 17, 2021, at https://www.keckmedicine.org/is-it-the-stomach-flu-or-food-poisoning/

• Mayo Clinic. Food Poisoning. Accessed February 17, 2021, at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/food-poisoning/symptoms-causes/syc-20356230

Stomach flu (gastroenteritis) symptoms, causes, and treatment

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Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is a highly contagious intestinal infection that causes watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting. It is usually due to a norovirus or rotavirus and transmits via contact with others or contaminated food or drink.

Stomach flu usually develops after contact with a person carrying the infection or consuming contaminated food or water. Often, a person can let the infection run its course. However, home remedies can relieve symptoms.

In the United States, many people recover from stomach flu within a few days without any complications. However, for people in high-risk categories and those with reduced access to healthcare facilities, it can be a severe condition and a significant cause of death.

This article examines the symptoms and causes of stomach flu in adults and children, its contagiousness, recommended methods and home remedies for treating and preventing stomach flu, and when to seek medical advice.

Although people refer to viral gastroenteritis as flu, it is not the same as influenza. Influenza only affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. Stomach flu affects the stomach and intestines.

Symptoms of stomach flu can include:

• watery, non-bloody diarrhea
• stomach cramps and pain
• nausea, vomiting, or both
• occasional muscle aches or headache
• low grade fever

Anyone with symptoms of stomach flu should not go to school or work as the condition is usually contagious.

Different viruses can cause stomach flu, including:

• Norovirus: This is the most contagious form.
• Rotavirus: This virus peaks between December and April.
• Adenovirus: Infection with this virus can present with a wide range of symptoms.
• Astrovirus: This mostly affects weaker immune systems.

Symptoms generally appear following contact with someone who has the infection. They can also occur after eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Doctors can offer help for some symptoms and make sure that they are not due to another illness. Some bacterial infections cause the same symptoms as stomach flu.

Stomach flu can last from days up to 2 weeks, depending on which virus causes the condition.

The symptoms of each type begin at different times after contact with the virus and last for varied periods:

• Norovirus: Symptoms usually begin 12–48 hours after contact and last 1–3 days.
• Rotavirus: Symptoms usually begin 48 hours after contact and last 3–8 days.
• Adenovirus: Symptoms usually begin 3–10 days after contact and last 1–2 weeks.
• Astrovirus: Symptoms usually begin 4–5 days after contact and last 1–4 days.

Norovirus is more contagious when a person has symptoms or during the first days after recovery. However, the virus can continue to spread for over 2 weeks after symptoms ease.

Norovirus affects people at any age. Rotavirus, adenovirus, and astrovirus are more likely to affect children and infants, but adults can contract them too.

A parent should consult a doctor if their infant has symptoms for more than 1–2 days and is dehydrated. This can have particularly severe effects on their health.

Signs of mild to severe dehydration include:

• decrease in urination
• darker urine
• fewer tears when crying
• dry lips and mouth
• excessive sleepiness
• sunken soft spots on the heads of infants

If possible, encourage the child to take sips of fluids. Parents can help their children stay hydrated with the following:

• water
• oral and intravenous rehydration solutions
• milk, including breast milk
• juice
• their regular diet once tolerated

Doctors do not recommend electrolyte solutions or infants. These solutions contain a high level of artificial ingredients, which are not optimal to keep a child well hydrated. However, experts recommend oral rehydration solutions made of sugar and sodium as an alternative. People can administer these for children using a syringe, spoon, or cup.

There are no drugs that can cure stomach flu. Doctors do not prescribe antibiotics because a virus usually causes it.

However, there are medications that can help control symptoms:

• Ibuprofen: This can help with fever and aches, but people should use it cautiously as it can upset the stomach and give the kidneys extra work to do when they are already dehydrated.
• Acetaminophen: This is a common treatment option that has fewer side effects than ibuprofen. Acetaminophen is available on Amazon. However, this drug carries the risk of liver damage.
• Antiemetics: These can relieve feelings of nausea. Doctors may prescribe promethazine, ondansetron, metoclopramide, or prochlorperazine.
• OTC antidiarrheals: These include subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) and loperamide hydrochloride (Imodium). Parents should consult a doctor before giving these medications to children, as they can be harmful to children of certain ages.

The virus usually passes on its own, but home remedies can control symptoms and provide the best relief.

Stay hydrated

People with stomach flu often lose their appetite. The body also loses a lot of fluids through diarrhea, vomiting, and sweating. This lack of food and liquids can cause dehydration.

Dehydration is when the body does not have enough water to work properly. Signs of dehydration include extreme thirst, a dry mouth, tiredness, dizziness, and headache.

People with stomach flu should drink plenty of liquids such as clear soda, diluted fruit juices, or caffeine-free sports drinks, taking slow sips to help to keep fluids down. People who cannot keep food or drink down can snack on ice chips to maintain hydration. Electrolyte solutions, such as Pedialyte, can also help replace lost fluids.

Doctors recommend avoiding coffee as it can unsettle the stomach and disrupt sleep, which is important for recovery. People should also avoid alcohol because it is a diuretic, which means it reduces water content in the body.

What to eat

Stomach flu often reduces or eliminates the appetite. It can help to eat slowly and simply while appetite is low to aid recovery.

Doctors recommend that people rehydrate with fluids before transitioning to soups and broths, then try eating small meals.

Experts suggest following a bland diet to manage gastrointestinal complaints. Recommended foods include rice, pasta, or eggs. People should avoid excess fiber as it loosens the bowels. Tomato-based, fatty, and spicy dishes can also worsen diarrhea.

Rest

Stomach flu can be exhausting. The body needs as much energy as possible to fight off the infection and repair damage. For this reason, it is important to rest, allowing the immune system to work and cells to repair as quickly as possible.

Anyone with stomach flu should rest during the day and get a good night’s sleep each night.

Ginger and peppermint

Ginger helps reduce inflammation and promote digestion by relieving nausea and vomiting. It may also offer some relief from stomach cramps and bloating.

To make ginger tea:

1. Add 1 teaspoon (tsp) of powdered ginger or ½ tsp of fresh ginger root to 1 cup of water.
2. Boil for 5 minutes and let steep for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea when using fresh ginger root.
4. Drink 2–3 times daily to get relief.

Ginger can be a spice in meals. People with stomach flu can consume ginger by taking ginger capsules, drinking ginger ale, or chewing a piece of ginger. Powdered ginger is available to buy on Amazon.

Despite the suggested gastrointestinal benefits of ginger, scientists need to conduct more extensive and well‐controlled human studies of ginger to demonstrate its efficacy.

Mint, such as peppermint, may also help soothe an upset stomach and treat gas and bloating. The most effective way to use mint for an upset stomach is to drink it as tea.

To make mint tea, a person can take a few fresh mint leaves, boil them in water, then strain the infusion.

However, there is limited data available to determine the benefit of mint in humans.

Acupressure

Some research has demonstrated that acupressure can reduce nausea.

Measure three finger-widths down from the bottom of the palm and apply pressure with your thumb to the soft part between two tendons, then massage for a couple of minutes.

Chamomile

Chamomile is a plant that can be helpful as a stomach flu remedy. It relaxes the muscles and has anti-inflammatory properties.

This plant may help relieve diarrhea, stomach cramping, bloating, nausea, and gas in some individuals. Experts suggest it can help in minor cases of gastrointestinal distress.

To make chamomile tea:

1. Add 2–3 tsp of dried chamomile flowers to a cup of hot water. These flowers are available online at Amazon.
2. Cover and let it steep for 10–15 minutes.
3. Strain, and then add some lemon juice and honey to taste.
4. Drink this tea three or four times a day for 2–3 days.

Rosemary, red, and fennel tea may also have anti-inflammatory properties and aid digestion.

If home remedies do not provide relief from stomach flu, a doctor can offer additional professional guidance.

Norovirus is the most common form of stomach flu. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every year in the U.S., it causes 19–21 million illnesses, around 109,000 hospitalizations, and 900 deaths of adults over 65 years of age.

It is the most common cause of foodborne disease outbreaks in the U.S., causing 58% of cases.

A few simple measures can reduce the risk of catching stomach flu:

• Always wash hands before handling or preparing food and after using the toilet or changing a diaper.
• Wash all fruits and vegetables and thoroughly cook seafood before eating.
• Wipe shopping cart handles before use.
• Disinfect countertops and surfaces, and wash clothes and bedding.
• Use the dishwasher rather than washing dishes by hand.
• People who begin to feel ill should not prepare food for others.
• Sick family members should self-isolate, for instance, by restricting themselves to one bathroom.

Vaccination for children

Rotavirus was previously the most common cause of stomach flu, causing around 440,000 deaths worldwide each year in children under 5.

However, since 2006, rotavirus vaccination has become available for children. Since the vaccination scheme, cases have dropped by 58–90% each year.

A person should seek immediate medical assistance if they or a child in their care experiences the following:

• a fever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit, or any fever in infants
• persistent vomiting
• diarrhea that lasts more than two days
• producing at least six loose stools in a day
• blood or pus in the stool, or black or tarry stools
• severe pain in the rectum or abdomen
• dehydration
• alteration in mental state
• being unable to keep liquids down for 24 hours

Additionally, a parent or caregiver should seek medical advice if a child cannot consume enough fluids or if liquids are not helping with symptoms. Prolonged bouts of diarrhea are considered a dangerous symptom, especially in newborns, as it can lead to severe dehydration.

The symptoms of stomach flu and food poisoning are very similar, but food poisoning is more common.

One major difference is the duration of illness. Food poisoning tends to clear up within a couple of days, but stomach flu can last for almost 2 weeks.

Learn more about the differences between stomach viruses and food poisoning here.

Symptoms of stomach flu can overlap with those of COVID-19. However, the most common feature of COVID-19 is respiratory symptoms, which do not occur with gastrointestinal conditions.

Find out more about gastrointestinal symptoms of COVID-19.

For people who are not at high risk and have access to healthcare facilities, stomach flu often passes on its own without causing complications. Home remedies and general good hygiene can help prevent or ease symptoms.

However, stomach flu can have strong, negative implications in some cases in people of all ages. A person should consult a doctor if they are experiencing severe symptoms or dehydration.

TsMSCh No. 28, Angarsk. Prevention of influenza and SARS

March 29, 2021

What is influenza?

Influenza is a severe viral infection that affects men, women and children of all ages and ethnicities. Influenza epidemics happen every year, usually during the cold season. In terms of the number of cases in the world, influenza and SARS rank first, the share in the structure of infectious diseases reaches 95%.

Influenza and SARS, gradually undermining health, reduce the average life expectancy of a person by several years. In severe cases of influenza, irreversible damage to the cardiovascular system, respiratory organs, and central nervous system often occurs, provoking heart and vascular diseases, pneumonia, tracheobronchitis, and meningoencephalitis. Common complications after influenza are rhinitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, otitis, exacerbation of chronic diseases, bacterial superinfection. A bacterial infection (pneumococcal, hemophilic, staphylococcal) is often introduced into an organism weakened by influenza. Influenza collects the greatest victims among the elderly population groups suffering from chronic diseases. Death from influenza can occur from intoxication, cerebral hemorrhages, pulmonary complications (pneumonia), heart or cardiopulmonary failure.

What is SARS? What is the difference from the flu?

The term “acute respiratory disease” (ARI) or “acute respiratory viral infection” (ARVI) covers a large number of diseases that are very similar to each other. Their main similarity lies in the fact that they are all caused by viruses that enter the body along with inhaled air through the mouth and nasopharynx, and also that they are all characterized by the same set of symptoms. The patient has a fever, inflammation in the throat, cough and headache for several days. The most common symptom of respiratory disease is a runny nose; it is caused by a number of related viruses known as rhinoviruses. With recovery, all these symptoms disappear and do not leave any traces behind.

The influenza virus is very easily transmitted. The most common route of infection is airborne. A household transmission route is also possible, for example, through household items. When coughing, sneezing, talking, particles of saliva, mucus, sputum with pathogenic microflora, including influenza viruses, are ejected from the nasopharynx of a patient or a virus carrier. An infected zone is formed around the patient with a maximum concentration of aerosol particles. The range of their scattering usually does not exceed 2 – 3 m.

Influenza symptoms

Influenza usually begins acutely. The incubation (hidden) period usually lasts 2-5 days. Then the period of acute clinical manifestations begins. The severity of the disease depends on the general state of health, age, whether the patient has been in contact with this type of virus before. Depending on this, the patient may develop one of four forms of influenza: mild, moderate, severe, hypertoxic.

Depending on the specific type of pathogen, symptoms can vary significantly, both in severity and combination options.

Fever

Chills, general malaise, weakness headache, muscle pain

Decreased appetite, possible nausea and vomiting

Conjunctivitis (possible)

Diarrhea (possible)

On average, the illness lasts about 5 days. If the temperature lasts longer, there may be complications.

Influenza and SARS prophylaxis

Influenza and SARS prophylaxis is subdivided into non-specific and specific .

Methods of non-specific prophylaxis:

1. Personal hygiene.

In other words, many diseases are associated with unwashed hands. The source, as before, is a sick person. Handshakes should be avoided during this period. After contact with door handles, toilets, handrails in public places, treat hands with an antiseptic or wash them thoroughly. Do not touch your nose, eyes, mouth with dirty, unwashed hands.

2. Rinse the nose.

Even if you don’t know how to do it, it’s time to learn. Now many doctors advise moisturizing or rinsing the nose during epidemics. This can be done with a saline solution (1 teaspoon of salt per liter of water) or special salt sprays, of which there are many in pharmacies.

3. Putting on masks.

Moreover, it is worth putting it on a sick person in order to prevent large particles of saliva from entering the space when coughing and sneezing, but it does not retain small particles.

4. Thorough cleaning of the premises.

The virus loves warm and dusty rooms, so you should take the time to wet cleaning and airing.

5. Avoid crowds.

During this period, it is better to refrain from going to theaters, circuses, cafes and other places where infected people may be and where the chance of catching the virus is high.

6. Other methods , which include a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, exercise, walking and more.

The World Health Organization considers vaccination to be the only socially and economically viable measure to combat influenza. Vaccination reduces morbidity by 90% and reduces hospitalization by 60%.

The main method of specific prophylaxis against influenza is active immunization – vaccination, when a particle of an infectious agent is introduced into the body. The viruses (its parts) contained in the vaccine stimulate the body to produce antibodies (they begin to be produced on average after two weeks), which prevent the reproduction of viruses and infection of the body. The best time to vaccinate is in the fall, as influenza epidemics tend to occur between November and March.

REMEMBER!!!

Timely visit to the doctor reduces the risk of complications

How to return digestion to normal after coronavirus? – Clinic “Family Doctor”.

Most people who have had COVID-19 experience a decline in their quality of life. A dangerous illness is behind, but there is no complete recovery. Increased anxiety, fatigue, sluggishness, forgetfulness, drowsiness and impaired appetite interfere with full-fledged work or study. Chronic diseases are aggravated, problems with digestion appear.

Gastrointestinal tract (GI) lesion due to COVID-19

Coronavirus infection SARS-CoV-2 can initially occur with a predominant lesion of the digestive tract. Even if there was no nausea, loose stools and abdominal pain during the acute period of the disease, covid affects all human tissues and reduces immunity. In addition, the treatment of infection with serious drugs violates the natural balance of microflora in the intestines, negatively affects the liver.

Causes of digestive disorders after COVID-19

1. Changes in intestinal biocenosis.
2. Deterioration of the liver.
3. Reduced immunity.

This leads to diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, weakness and irritability, and loss of appetite.

Doctor will help to improve digestion.

To clarify the cause of indigestion, an examination is carried out:

• complete blood count
• stool test for dysbacteriosis
• coprogram
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
• colonoscopy.

The list of diagnostic procedures can be reduced or expanded. The examination is prescribed by the doctor individually for each patient.

Digestion recovery after COVID

Treatment depends on the pathology identified during the examination and the person’s well-being.

The standard of medical recommendations includes:

• normalization of sleep and wakefulness
• diet control, prescription of diet food
• drugs that normalize the functioning of the liver and digestive tract
• treatment of comorbidities
• physiotherapy
• psychotherapeutic support.

Gastroenterologists use effective treatment regimens for post-COVID digestive disorders. Patients quickly recover and return to their usual way of life. The effect of treatment is higher, the earlier a person goes to the clinic.

Sign up for a consultation with a doctor at the single contact center number +7 (495) 775 75 66 or using a special online appointment form on the website, do not delay your recovery.

Publications of our doctors on the topic “How to overcome the post-covid syndrome”

• Lung recovery after coronavirus
• Restoration of smell after coronavirus
• Restoring memory after suffering a coronavirus
• Loss of smell due to COVID-19 – advice from an otolaryngologist
• Overcoming mental disorders in post-COVID syndrome
  
• Experiencing COVID. How the coronavirus pandemic affects mental activity
• Post-covid screening – examination after a new coronavirus infection
  
• Cardiologist recommendations after suffering COVID-19
• Coronavirus turned out to be “vindictive” – ​​what is important to know
• Melatonin and COVID-19 – a drug for Trump
  
• Post-covid syndrome: a program for the diagnosis and regression of post-covid symptoms.