GI Flu Information

The GI flu or stomach flu, which is called gastroenteritis in medical terms, isn't really the flu at all. Instead, it is inflammation in the stomach and intestines that is typically caused by a virus. It is very common, and most people experience the GI flu at least once in their lives. Because it is a viral infection, it is very contagious and can be easily spread through contact with people who are infected. In most cases, the GI flu is not serious, but it can be quite uncomfortable. Most people who become infected with gastroenteritis make a complete recovery with no medical treatment.

Symptoms

• The most commonly reported symptoms of the GI flu include diarrhea and vomiting. Other symptoms include headaches, a low-grade fever, muscle aches and abdominal cramps and pain. Symptoms typically begin about a day or two after becoming infected. Depending on what is causing the illness, symptoms may last anywhere between one and 10 days.

Causes

• The GI flu is caused by one of several different viruses, including rotavirus, adenoviruses, noroviruses, astroviruses and sapoviruses. The most common ways people contract the viruses that cause the GI flu is to eat or drink contaminated food or beverages or share food, utensils or towels with someone who is already infected. Gastroenteritis is also easily spread when people handle food without washing their hands after going to the bathroom.

Risk Factors

• Most people will make a complete recovery from the GI flu without experiencing any complications. However, some individuals are more likely to get gastroenteritis. Young children, especially those who attend daycare centers, are more likely to get the GI flu because their immune systems are still developing. It is also more common in adults who live in nursing homes and residential care facilities, where the illness can be easily spread.

Treatment

• The biggest concern in people with the GI flu is dehydration, so treatment centers on replacing fluids lost through diarrhea and vomiting. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that infants and children with the GI flu be given an oral rehydration solution such as Pedialyte to replace fluids and electrolytes. Gatorade and similar products are also oral rehydration solutions and can be used to help prevent dehyration.

  It's also important for people with the GI flu to get a lot of rest, because the illness can leave people weak and tired. It may be difficult to keep food down while you are sick, so it's a good idea to slowly introduce foods back into your diet. Start with bland and easy-to-digest foods such as soda crackers, bananas, rice and chicken. Avoid dairy products and fatty foods until you are feeling better.

Prevention

• One of the best ways to prevent contracting the GI flu is the wash your hands after going to the bathroom and make sure your children do as well. If you can't wash your hands, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Also, try to avoid sharing food and utensils. If you know someone who has the GI flu, avoid close contact. Kids with the stomach flu should be kept home from school or daycare for at least a few days to prevent infecting other kids.