Chills with a stomach bug: what to know and do

Gastroenteritis irritates the stomach and bowel and may trigger shivering before or during a fever. A person can feel cold even while their measured temperature is raised. Chills may also occur when vomiting or diarrhoea causes dehydration, which can leave the mouth dry, urine darker and the body weak. Rotavirus infection is one possible cause, particularly in children. Other symptoms can include nausea, abdominal pain, reduced appetite and loose stools. A stomach bug does not automatically explain every severe symptom, so notice whether the illness is improving or becoming more intense.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink, especially after each episode of vomiting or diarrhoea. If nausea is strong, pause briefly and restart with smaller sips. Rest, keep comfortably warm with light layers, and eat bland foods when appetite returns. Avoid alcohol and very rich meals while your stomach is unsettled. Check your temperature if you feel hot or shivery, and keep track of how often you pass urine. Do not force food or use anti-diarrhoeal medicines for a child without professional advice.

Seek urgent help for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, trouble breathing, severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, or inability to keep fluids down. Contact a clinician promptly if urine becomes very infrequent, chills keep returning, fever is high or persistent, or symptoms are worsening rather than settling. Infants, older adults, pregnant people and anyone with a long-term illness can become dehydrated more quickly and should be assessed sooner. A clinician can check hydration and decide whether testing or treatment is needed.

Ask: Could dehydration be contributing to the chills? Which fluids are suitable for my age and health? What symptoms would mean I need same-day assessment? If a child is ill, ask how to monitor urine, alertness and drinking safely.