What kills stomach virus

Stomach viruses, often called “stomach flu” or gastroenteritis, are common infections resulting in symptoms like nausea & vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort. These infections are usually triggered by norovirus, rotavirus, or other viral agents, and they are easily transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close contact with infected people. While there is no specific cure for the stomach flu, and antibiotics are ineffective as they only treat bacterial infections, the best strategy is to strengthen your immune system to help fight the disease. This means resting at home, drinking enough fluids to prevent dehydration, and consuming small meals, to fuel your body for recovery. Though it may be uncomfortable, your body will eventually rid itself of the virus with the right care. Let’s explore techniques and remedies to handle and possibly eradicate stomach viruses, focusing on prevention and intervention.

What is stomach flu?

Stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, is a common illness that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Viruses typically cause it and leads to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. It usually resolves independently within a few days and isn’t serious. Despite being called “stomach flu”, it is not connected to the flu (influenza), which impacts the respiratory system.

Symptoms and causes

The symptoms of stomach flu can differ depending on the virus causing the infection, but the most common symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Headache
• Weakness
• Muscle aches
• Dehydration (from diarrhoea and vomiting)

Causes:

Viral infections primarily cause stomach flu. However, bacteria or parasites can also trigger it. The most common causes are:

• Norovirus: The most widespread cause of viral gastroenteritis, especially in adults. It spreads quickly through contaminated food, water, or surfaces.
• Rotavirus: Once a leading cause of stomach flu in children (as vaccination has minimised its prevalence in several countries), It often peaks¹ between December and April.
• Adenovirus: This virus, particularly certain serotypes, usually causes respiratory infections, but it can also trigger gastrointestinal infections if unknowingly ingested. It may infect all age groups.
• Astrovirus: This virus mostly affects young children and individuals with weak immunity.

The infection commonly spreads via infected food, water, or contact with an infected person. Poor hygiene, such as not washing hands after using the restroom or before preparing meals, can also contribute to its spread.

Stages of stomach flu?

The stages of stomach flu include:

1. Incubation period: The incubation period transpires after exposure to the virus and before the manifestation of symptoms. This duration may vary from one to three days, contingent upon the specific virus, such as norovirus or rotavirus. During this interval, the virus initiates multiplication within the host body; however, no identifiable symptoms are present.
2. Onset of symptoms: The onset of symptoms typically occurs abruptly and may encompass nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and a low-grade fever. Additional symptoms may include fatigue, muscle aches, and a general sense of malaise. This phase represents the acute stage of the illness.
3. Peak symptoms: The peak symptoms phase constitutes the period of greatest intensity, generally persisting from one to three days. During this stage, there is a significant risk of dehydration resulting from persistent vomiting and diarrhoea. Symptoms such as abdominal pain and loss of appetite may continue, complicating efforts to maintain adequate hydration and nutrition.
4. Recovery stage: The recovery stage includes the gradual improvement of symptoms and may take several days. During this time, staying hydrated and eating easily digestible foods, like rice, bananas, and toast, supports recovery. Temporary food intolerances, such as sensitivity to lactose, may occur but usually resolve within a week.

Home treatments

Stomach flu, or viral gastroenteritis, is an infection that inflames the stomach and intestines, causing symptoms like nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting. While it often resolves on its own, home treatments can ease discomfort and support recovery.

1. Hydration: It is essential to maintain hydration to replace fluids lost due to vomiting and diarrhoea. Small sips of water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are advisable. Caffeinated or sugary beverages should be avoided, as these can exacerbate dehydration.
2. Electrolyte replacement: Electrolytes can be replenished through ORS, sports drinks, or homemade solutions that include salt and sugar. Additionally, coconut water serves as a natural alternative that help in restoring electrolytes.
3. Rest: Providing the body with adequate rest is important for recovery, particularly following stomach flu, which can induce fatigue. Refraining from engaging in strenuous activities during the recovery period is recommended.
4. Bland diet (BRAT): Following the BRAT diet, which consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, can facilitate digestion. As symptoms improve, one may gradually introduce bland foods such as boiled potatoes, plain crackers, or steamed vegetables.
5. Avoid trigger foods: Fatty, spicy, or dairy-based foods can irritate the stomach and exacerbate symptoms. Furthermore, abstaining from alcohol and caffeine is advisable.
6. Ginger: Ginger tea or chews may relieve nausea and help settle the stomach in some individuals, though evidence for its effectiveness in gastroenteritis is limited.
7. Peppermint: Peppermint tea can alleviate nausea and stomach cramps by promoting relaxation of the muscles within the gastrointestinal tract.
8. Probiotics: Following the acute phase of illness, consuming yogurt containing live cultures or a probiotic supplement may assist in restoring healthy gut bacteria and improve digestion.
9. Smaller, frequent meals: To avoid overloading the stomach, it is recommended to eat smaller portions more frequently rather than large meals.
10. Maintain hygiene: Wash hands frequently and disinfect surfaces to mitigate the risk of spreading illness to other members of the household.

What helps the stomach flu go away faster?

To speed up recovery from stomach flu, focus on staying hydrated with water, electrolyte solutions, or clear broths to replace lost fluids. Rest is essential to help your body fight the virus. Following a bland diet (like the BRAT) can ease digestion, while natural remedies like ginger and peppermint may soothe nausea. Avoid fatty, spicy, or dairy-rich foods that can irritate your stomach. Additionally, practising good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, prevents reinfection or spreading the virus to others. While there’s no quick cure, these measures help your body recover more efficiently.

How can stomach flu be prevented?

Preventing stomach flu involves maintaining good hygiene and taking precautions to avoid virus exposure. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating, using the restroom, and caring for someone sick. Disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs and countertops, particularly during outbreaks. Avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils with others. Consume only clean, well-cooked food and drink safe, filtered water. When travelling, be cautious with street food and unclean water sources. Vaccines, like the rotavirus vaccine for infants, is highly effective in preventing severe cases of the disease. You can reduce the risk of contracting stomach flu by prioritising cleanliness and safe practices.

When to consult a doctor?

Telehealth consultation is recommended if symptoms associated with stomach flu either worsen or do not show improvement after several days. Immediate medical attention should be sought in instances of severe dehydration, which may manifest as intense thirst, dry mouth, diminished urination, dizziness, or fainting. Additional indicators that necessitate urgent care include a persistent high fever, the presence of blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, or the inability to retain fluids for a duration exceeding 24 hours. Certain groups, including infants, young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems, must seek medical advice promptly due to their increased susceptibility to complications. Should symptoms continue or if there is a suspicion of an underlying condition, such as food poisoning or a bacterial infection, it is essential to obtain medical guidance to facilitate appropriate treatment.

How Hola Health may be able to help

Hola Health is an Australian telehealth platform that connects you with registered doctors and nurse practitioners - from the comfort of your home, at a time that suits you. Depending on your situation, a Hola Health clinician may be able to help with:

• 24/7 General medical advice via telehealth doctor consult - talk through symptoms or health concerns with a registered doctor or medical practitioner.
• Medical certificate online - for work or personal leave, when clinically appropriate
• Referrals to specialists - or in-person services when needed
• Online prescriptions - at a clinician's discretion and where clinically suitable.
• Pathology or imaging requests - when assessed as appropriate by your treating clinician.
• Mental health Care Plan - Mental Health Treatment Plans (referral to your regular GP may be recommended for ongoing care).

Hola Health clinicians are AHPRA-registered Doctors and medical practitioners in Australia. They will always recommend an in-person consultation, specialist referral, or emergency care if that is in your best interest.

Note: Telehealth is not suitable for all conditions. Hola Health does not replace your regular GP, specialist, or emergency services. If you are unsure whether telehealth is right for your situation, we recommend speaking with your usual healthcare provider. In emergencies, call 000.