Suffering from the dreaded stomach bug? Here’s what to do

The period between November and May usually coincides with an increase in diarrhoea and pneumonia cases.

However, if you are still worried about the stomach bug, Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Social Impact - Lenmed, gives you all the answers to commonly asked questions about the stomach bug:

How long does a stomach bug last?

People typically develop stomach bug symptoms within 24 to 72 hours of being exposed to the virus.

While most cases resolve in three to four days, it’s not uncommon to feel unwell for up to a week.

How do I know if it’s food poisoning or a stomach virus?

The symptoms of food poisoning and a stomach virus are very similar. However, food poisoning symptoms develop in as little as a few hours.

Most people suspect food poisoning when symptoms develop shortly after eating food which may seem questionable.

How long are you contagious with a stomach bug?

Stomach viruses are highly contagious and can spread quickly. People infected with a stomach virus are contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill and also for the first few days (up to 72 hours) after they recover.

A stomach virus can spread in several different ways:

• Eating food or drinking liquids that have been contaminated with the virus.
• Having direct or indirect mouth contact with an infected person or surface with the virus on it.
• Unhygienic behaviour, such as not washing hands after toilet use, not washing fruits and vegetables before consumption.
• The virus also inhabits the vomit and stools of people who have the infection.

How do you treat or get rid of a stomach bug?

Supportive therapy that includes increased hydration, rest, electrolyte replenishment and medication for fever is usually all that is needed for viral illnesses.

This is because viruses do not respond to antibiotics and simply need to run their course. If the infection is caused by bacteria, like Salmonella, an antibiotic may be prescribed.

Viral gastroenteritis will typically resolve within a few days or less without medication. However, hydration is vital to a speedy recovery and prevention of complications.

Here are a few steps you can take at home to aid recovery from a stomach virus or food poisoning:

• Try not to eat any solid foods until you feel better.
• Suck on ice chips or take small sips of water to prevent dehydration.
• Avoid juices or other beverages with a lot of sugar or sweeteners that can make diarrhoea worse.
• Ease yourself back into eating. Start with bland, easy-to-digest foods, such as toast and rice. Stop eating if a feeling of nausea returns.
• Avoid dairy, caffeine, fatty foods and sugar until you feel better.
• You should be cautious of taking over-the-counter medications, unless advised by a healthcare provider, as some can worsen the infection.

When to treat it seriously and consult a medical doctor?

People should seek medical attention if they have any of the following symptoms:

• Bloody stool or vomit.
• Are unable to keep liquid down for 12-24 hours.
• Dizziness or light-headedness.
• Fever above 40°C.
• Severe, unrelenting abdominal pain.

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