1. It's Not Influenza
An intestinal flu is not caused by an influenza virus. It is usually caused by a virus but can also be brought on by bacteria or protozoa. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pains or cramps. Influenza viruses affect your respiratory system while intestinal flus affect your digestive system.
2. Comes and Goes Quickly
Intestinal flu often feels like it came out of nowhere. One minute you feel fine and the next you are bent over vomiting. These infections of the gastrointestinal tract often disappear as fast as they appear. When you catch an intestinal flu it will usually last one to three days, although it can last longer. If you are still sick after a few days, call your health care provider to make sure you aren't suffering from a more serious condition.
3. Catching It From Others
The intestinal flu is contagious. It spreads through feces and vomit, often when a number of people ingest the same contaminated food or beverages. This can happen through the handling or preparation of food by someone who neglects to wash hands thoroughly or when fish contaminated by sewage is not cooked properly. The intestinal flu can also spread through food or utensils shared with an infected person. It is also possible to get sick by drinking water or other liquids contaminated by sewage.
4. Fluids Must Be Replaced
Intestinal flu usually goes away by itself. While medication might not be necessary to "cure" the intestinal flu, rehydration is necessary in order to replace fluids lost while sick. Fluids consumed should contain electrolytes and carbohydrates, so drink an oral rehydration solution such as Gatorade or Pedialyte. If you are struggling to keep food in your system, limit meals to clear liquids such as chicken broth and fruit juice. As you start to get healthy, eat mild foods such as plain toast and pasta and then slowly return to eating more flavorful food. You may feel weak or tired and extra sleep is recommended. Sometimes antibiotics are prescribed and occasionally IV rehydration is necessary. If you are experiencing sharp stomach pains or notice blood in your vomit or stool, consult with your doctor to ensure that you aren't infected with something more serious.
5. You Can Protect Yourself
Reduce the risk of catching an intestinal flu by regularly cleaning your hands and disinfecting contaminated surfaces with bleach-based cleansers. Always wash your hands before eating and after using the toilet. Avoid drinking water in places where chances of contamination by sewage is high. Don't think that because you already caught an intestinal flu that you no longer need to take precautions. You can catch the same intestinal flu more than once.
