A stomach virus can be caused by a number of different viruses. Although the virus affects infants and seniors most often, anyone can be affected. Flu seasons vary from country to country, and in the United States the most common time is between October and April. According to the Centers for Disease Control, there is only a preventative vaccine for one of them, the rotavirus. Though the virus will usually pass with time, there are steps that can be taken to recover quickly and minimize the negative effects of the stomach virus.
Drinking
Though vomiting and diarrhea can be quite painful, the worst heath effect is the loss of hydration and nutrients. Drink very small amounts, sometimes as little as a small sip at a time if that is all your stomach can hold. It is okay to start with just water if that is all you can keep down because water will rehydrate the body, but minerals are also lost and need to be replenished. Clear liquids like apple juice and weak tea are good drinks to . Liquids to avoid include orange juice because of the acidity, soda unless it has been allowed to go flat and coffee because of the caffeine.
Medication
In extreme cases of vomiting or dehydration, drugs may be necessary. These drugs will treat the symptoms not the virus, but can aid in the recovery process by reducing vomiting or diarrhea. For example, Kaopectate will limit diarrhea but will not affect the virus. Some doctors discourage these medications because by limiting diarrhea, they can slow the time it takes for the virus to leave the body.
Eating
The stomach needs time to rest and fight the virus, so do not eat until the diarrhea and vomiting have subsided for several hours. Even then, softer foods like bananas, crackers and toast should be the starting point. For a day or two, avoid foods that are high in fat, acidic and spicy. After two or three days of feeling better, you can start eating regular foods again.
Prevention
The stomach flu is transmitted through bodily fluids like saliva, vomit and stool. Anything that may be contaminated should be washed with bleach to kill the virus. Foods like fruits and vegetables can be contaminated by workers who have not washed their hands, so these foods need to be washed before eating. Oysters are particularly vulnerable to carrying a flu virus because of their exposure to sewage. If you suspect a food is contaminated, don't eat it.
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