Stomach Flu
Stomach flu, sometimes referred to by the medical term “gastroenteritis,” is caused by a virus but not the same one that causes influenza, the seasonal flu. Examples of some viruses include norovirus and rotavirus. However, stomach flu may also be caused by parasites or bacteria.
Stomach flu can last anywhere from three to eight days. The symptoms include achiness, fever, vomiting, and watery diarrhea. Any illness is usually felt within two days after getting exposed to the virus or bacteria or parasite that caused the stomach flu.
Any young children or elderly suffering from gastroenteritis should be closely monitored, because the diarrhea can lead to dangerous dehydration. Keep an eye on these two at-risk groups, since complications can arise quickly.
