The stomach virus, technically called viral gastroenteritis, which means inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is an infection that can result from a variety of viruses and results in diarrhea and/or vomiting. It is not caused by bacteria or parasites, nor is it caused by the influenza virus. This condition usually only lasts between one and three days. For most healthy people, contracting the stomach virus is not a serious problem, and usually clears up on its own without any long-lasting health issues. This illness can affect anyone anywhere in the world!
Viral gastroenteritis is highly contagious. It can be spread a number of ways. Some methods include contact with stool or vomit from an infected person, such as a mother cleaning up her sick child’s vomit or diaper. It can be spread when people share food or drink, or any eating utensils with an infected person. If your spouse or partner is infected and you kiss them, this can spread the infection. You can also contract the illness by eating contaminated food, such as seafood coming from contaminated water. These are some of the most common ways one might get sich with the stomach virus. Even people who no longer have symptoms can still be contagious, since the virus can take up to 14 days to completely clear out of one’s system. Also, people can become infected without having symptoms, and can spread the virus to others without ever knowing they were infected themselves!
You may have one or all of these symptoms when you contract the stomach virus: nausea, vomiting, stomach and other muscle cramps, diarrhea, fever, fatigue, hot and cold flashes, and loss of appetite. The illness may develop over a period of several hours, or it may hit someone suddenly with diarrhea, vomiting, and/or stomach cramps.
Most cases of the stomach virus resolve on their own within a few dayswithout any specific treatment. Antibiotics will not help resolve the illness. Be sure to get plenty of rest if you become infected. The most important thing to remember when one has been struck with this illness is the importance of replacing all the fluids they are losing by drinking plenty of water and sports drinks to replace the minerals lost during vomit and diarrhea. Other liquids that are best to drink are hot tea and apple juice. Try not to eat anything until you’ve finished vomiting. Once your stomach begins to feel better, start with a small, bland meal such as a coiuple crackers, and keep the portion small. If you are suffering from severe diarrhea, it’s best to take an over-the-counter remedy so you stop losing so many nutrients and fluids in your bowels. Be sure to only use the recommended dosaging stated on the package. If you have been vomiting and/or your diarrhea has lasted for more than three days, it’s recommended to call your healthcare provider.
Prevention is the only way to avoid the stomach virus. Wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom, changing any diapers, cleaning up vomit, and before eating for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Avoid eating foods that may be contaminated or sharing drinks with an infected person. Disinfect all surfaces with soap and water or an antibacterial solution. There is no vaccine to prevent this illness.
Now that you are armed with more information regarding this illness, use it to avoid getting sick. If you do get sick, follow the advice listed above for how to treat your illness, and it should be gone in just a few short days.
Sources:
CDC: Norovirus: FAQ
StomachVirus.com
Adult Health Advisor: Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis)
WebMD: Viral Gastroenteritis
