What to do about a stomach bug now

Gastroenteritis commonly causes a cluster of symptoms such as watery diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and sometimes fever. The pattern and intensity matter more than one isolated symptom. A recent exposure can support the possibility of an infectious illness, but it cannot identify the cause on its own.

Check whether you can drink, pass urine and stay alert. Fluid loss can progress to dehydration when vomiting or diarrhoea is frequent, especially if drinking is reduced. Rotavirus infection is one possible cause, but stomach symptoms can have several causes.

Keep water or an oral rehydration drink nearby and take small sips regularly. After vomiting, restart slowly rather than drinking a large glass at once. Rest, wear comfortable clothing and choose small portions of simple food when hunger returns. Avoid alcohol and foods that clearly worsen nausea.

Wash hands with soap and water, clean frequently touched bathroom surfaces and avoid cooking for other people while symptoms are active. Keep a note of fluid intake, urination, vomiting, diarrhoea, pain and fever so a clinician can assess the change over time.

Seek urgent care for fainting, confusion, severe weakness, severe or worsening abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, or inability to keep fluids down. Contact a clinician promptly if urine becomes much less frequent, symptoms are worsening, or you are caring for a young child, an older adult, a pregnant person or someone with a serious long-term condition.

Ask whether you need an examination, testing or prescription treatment, and which rehydration method is suitable. Explain when symptoms began, how often you have vomited or passed stool, whether you have fever or pain, and whether anyone around you is ill.