The 24-hour flu, also called a 24-hour virus, commonly appears and is over in about one day, unlike a full-blown case of influenza which can last from seven to 10 days. The 24-hour virus attacks the stomach and intestines and--in some people--can be quite severe, while others barely notice they are ill. The stomach virus is not a true influenza, which always involves the upper respiratory tract, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's definition of the flu, but the 24-hour virus sure feels dreadful when it hits. Sometimes, the 24-hour flu can be mistaken for food poisoning, with similar symptoms, according to Ohio State University. Always pay attention to a case of 24-hour flu, especially in children and the elderly, as it can lead to severe loss of fluids and weakness if allowed to go untended.
Chills
One of the fist signs of being ill with a 24-hour virus is the chills. In some cases, the chills can lead to shaking, with teeth chattering and the inability to remain standing. Warm, clear liquids like soup broths and hot tea, as well as bundling up and going to be are the best thing you can do.
Headache
Headache, in combination with other symptoms, is another sign you may have a 24-hour virus. Using acetaminophen or aspirin or an alternative headache remedy will help to relieve the pain. Taking a nap is also another way to eliminate a headache associated with the flu.
Vomiting
If you have a stomach flu, one of the most obvious symptoms is vomiting and loss of appetite. If you are vomiting, stop eating solid foods but keep drinking water and clear liquids, not soda, to keep from becoming dehydrated. Flat, room temperature ginger ale, ginger tea, tea with lemon and honey are all good anti-emetics, or treatments to reduce nausea and prevent vomiting. If you can't hold liquids down, suck on tiny pieces of chipped ice to reduce thirst and nausea.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is also associated with a stomach flu and can lead to fatigue and severe dehydration if allowed to continue untreated. Children and the elderly are the most susceptible to dehydration. Drinking clear liquids and those with added electrolytes are a good bet for rehydrating the system. If you become severely dehydrated, a hospital visit is called for where you will receive fluids intravenously.
Fatigue
Due to your system working hard to maintain itself in spite of the onslaught of the 24-hour flu, fatigue may set overcome you in response to your immune system trying to re-establish its normal function while fighting the virus.
