Current stomach bug symptoms: what to know

A stomach bug usually refers to gastroenteritis, irritation or infection of the stomach and bowel. Symptoms can begin close together and may make eating difficult. Diarrhoea and vomiting remove fluid from the body, so dehydration can develop even when the illness itself is short-lived. Rotavirus infection is one possible cause, especially in young children. Symptoms alone cannot identify the specific germ.

Abdominal pain may feel cramp-like and come in waves. Fever can accompany an infection, while loss of appetite often reflects nausea or an unsettled digestive system.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. If vomiting occurs, pause briefly and restart with smaller sips. Eat plain, familiar foods when you feel able, and avoid alcohol and foods that clearly worsen symptoms. Wash hands with soap and water, clean shared bathroom surfaces, and avoid preparing food for other people while diarrhoea or vomiting continues. Rest, and keep track of urination, alertness and whether fluids stay down.

Seek urgent medical help for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, difficulty breathing, severe or worsening abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, or inability to keep fluids down. Contact a clinician promptly if there are signs of dehydration such as very little urine, a dry mouth or marked dizziness, or if a baby, older adult, pregnant person or someone with a long-term illness is affected. A clinician can assess the pattern and decide whether testing or treatment is needed.

Ask: Could this be gastroenteritis or another cause? How should I replace fluids? Which warning signs matter for my age or health conditions? Should I pause any regular medicines? When can I return to work, school or food preparation?