What to know about the flu going around

The term stomach flu is commonly used for gastroenteritis, an infection or irritation of the digestive tract; it is different from influenza, which mainly affects the airways. Gastroenteritis can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fever, and loss of appetite. Rotavirus Infection is one possible cause, especially in children, but other viruses, bacteria, contaminated food, and medicines can produce similar symptoms.

Symptoms alone cannot identify the germ. The timing of illness, recent food or travel exposure, contact with someone unwell, age, and medical history help a clinician decide whether testing or treatment is needed.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink, particularly after loose stools or vomiting. Eat simple foods when able and rest. Wash hands with soap, clean bathroom surfaces, and avoid preparing food for others while symptoms continue. Do not give children anti-diarrhoeal medicines or leftover antibiotics without clinical advice.

Watch for dehydration: thirst, dry mouth, dark or infrequent urine, dizziness, unusual tiredness, or worsening weakness. People with diabetes, kidney disease, pregnancy, frailty, or a weakened immune system may need earlier advice.

Seek urgent help for inability to keep fluids down, blood in stool or vomit, severe abdominal pain, confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty, or signs of dehydration. Arrange medical review for a persistent high fever, symptoms that are worsening, or diarrhoea after recent travel. Infants and older adults can become unwell quickly and should be assessed early when drinking is poor.

Ask whether your illness fits gastroenteritis or another condition, how much fluid is suitable, and whether your medicines need adjustment. Ask when a fever, vomiting, or diarrhoea warrants examination or testing.