What should you know about recent stomach bug?

A stomach bug is a common term for gastroenteritis, irritation of the stomach and intestines caused by an infection. Viruses are frequent causes, and rotavirus infection is one possibility, especially in young children. Gastroenteritis can present with watery diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, fever, and loss of appetite. The condition presents with these symptoms; having one symptom alone does not establish the cause.

The infection can spread through contaminated hands, surfaces, food, or drinks. People may remain contagious after they begin to feel better, so careful handwashing and cleaning matter during recovery.

Take frequent small sips of water or oral rehydration solution. If vomiting occurs, pause briefly and restart with smaller sips. Eat simple foods when your appetite returns, and rest. Wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before eating; clean shared bathroom surfaces and avoid preparing food for others while symptoms continue.

Watch for dehydration, which may cause a dry mouth, dizziness, unusual sleepiness, or reduced urination. Children may need close supervision because fluid loss can progress quickly. Do not give children or adults medicines to stop diarrhoea without checking that they are suitable.

Get urgent help for fainting, confusion, severe weakness, blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, or difficulty breathing. Contact a clinician if fluids repeatedly come back up, urination becomes markedly reduced, fever persists, or diarrhoea is severe or ongoing. Seek advice earlier for a baby, older adult, pregnant person, or anyone with a weakened immune system or a condition that increases dehydration risk.

Ask whether the symptoms fit gastroenteritis, how to recognise dehydration, which fluids and foods are suitable, and when testing is needed. Mention recent travel, sick contacts, new medicines, blood in stool, and how often you have vomited or passed loose stools.