Stomach Flu

Stomach flu or gastroenteritis happens when harmful germs infect the stomach and intestines, causing inflammation and discomfort. These germs spread easily through various ways.

Your child can catch stomach flu by:

• Touching contaminated surfaces then touching their mouth or food
• Sharing food or drinks with someone who is infected
• Living with a carrier, even if they show no symptoms

Viruses that often cause stomach flu include:

• Norovirus: The leading cause of foodborne illness worldwide, especially common in daycare settings.
• Rotavirus: The most frequent cause of gastroenteritis in children, transmitted easily as kids often put objects or fingers in their mouths.

Though called “stomach flu,” gastroenteritis differs from influenza, which targets the respiratory system.

Instead, gastroenteritis affects the stomach and intestines, causing symptoms such as:

• Watery diarrhea (without blood)
• Nausea, dizziness, and vomiting
• Abdominal cramps and stomach pain
• Headaches and mild body aches
• Low-grade fever

Symptoms usually appear 1-3 days after infection and resolve within a few days, though in some cases may last up to two weeks.

Your pediatrician can often diagnose stomach flu by reviewing symptoms. Testing may be needed if your child experiences severe pain or bloody stools.

Most stomach flu cases don’t require special treatment and can be managed at home. The key is preventing dehydration by encouraging fluids like water and oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte.

To support your child’s recovery:

• Let them rest at home and avoid school until fully recovered.
• Offer plenty of fluids including water and popsicles.
• For babies, provide smaller, more frequent breastfeeding sessions.
• If formula-fed, give small sips of water between feeds.
• Don’t force eating if they lack appetite.
• Introduce bland solid foods gradually as they feel better.
• Use over-the-counter pain relief like Tylenol if appropriate.
• Keep your child away from others until symptoms have cleared.

Avoid these common mistakes during stomach flu:

• Do not give fruit juices or soda as they may worsen diarrhea.
• Avoid junk or fast food high in sugar, fat, or dairy.
• Never dilute baby formula.
• Do not give medication to stop diarrhea unless advised.
• Avoid aspirin in children under 16 due to risk of Reye’s syndrome.

Most stomach flu cases can be handled at home, but watch closely for dehydration signs, especially in infants.

Look for fatigue, irritability, dry mouth, sunken eyes, pale skin, reduced urination, or tearless crying.

Call your pediatrician if your child has:

• Fever above 102°F (38.9°C)
• Severe pain or discomfort
• Bloody diarrhea or mucus in stool

Seek medical help if your baby shows:

• Frequent vomiting
• No wet diapers for six hours
• Bloody stools or severe diarrhea
• Sunken soft spot on the head
• Unusual sleepiness or unresponsiveness

The viruses causing stomach flu can live on doorknobs, toys, and other surfaces. Thorough cleaning and disinfecting after infection is important.

Keep your child away from food preparation areas to avoid spreading the virus.

To reduce the risk of infection:

• Encourage handwashing with soap and water before meals and after restroom use.
• Dispose of dirty diapers properly.
• Prevent sharing of food and utensils at daycare.

From common illnesses to chronic concerns, your child’s health is in caring hands with Sammy Kim, MD. Our board-certified pediatricians provide the attentive care your family can trust.

We offer same-day appointments at our clinic in Encino, CA. Call us at (818) 789-0941 or contact us online today.