Stomach Flu in Kids

Gastroenteritis, commonly known as the stomach flu, is an illness that can cause lots of discomfort for kids. While most types of this stomach bug are not serious, it can definitely be unpleasant for your child.  

Dr. Tara Kotagal, primary care pediatrician at Lurie Children’s Town & Country Pediatrics, shares everything you need to know about the stomach flu in kids.

What are the causes of the stomach flu? 

The majority of stomach bugs are caused by viruses. These germs can spread easily from person-to-person contact.  

Viral gastroenteritis, can cause many unpleasant symptoms, including:    

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting  
• Nausea
• Abdominal cramping and discomfort
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Muscle aches  
• Low-grade fever    

“Because these symptoms may go hand-in-hand with cold and upper respiratory illnesses, it is always a good idea to contact your child’s care team,” says Dr. Kotagal.

What's the difference between the stomach flu and food poisoning? 

Food poisoning is different from gastroenteritis, though both share similar features. Food poisoning is caused by ingesting contaminated food and gastroenteritis is spread by person-to-person transmission of a viral process.  

The symptoms of food poisoning can begin shortly after ingesting contaminated food and can last for 24-48 hours. Despite their different causes, the supportive care and treatment for both gastroenteritis and food poisoning are similar.  

How to Support Your Child When They Have a Stomach Bug  

Here are some tips to help your child feel better during their illness: 

• Hydration: Keep your child hydrated! Focus on small sips throughout the day. Try setting a timer to remind your child to take a slip of fluids. Try clear fluids like water, juice, or electrolyte solutions.
• Bland Foods: Once your child can tolerate eating, choose bland foods that are easy to digest. Stay away from fried or heavy foods while your child is recovering.
• Rest: Encourage your child to rest and avoid strenuous activity.
• Over-the-counter Medications: For fever and pain relief, you can give your child age-appropriate doses of over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Always consult your pediatrician before giving any medication to your child.

When to Seek Medical Attention 

While most cases of gastroenteritis resolve on their own with time, it's important to seek medical attention if your child experiences: 

• Severe dehydration
• A decrease in wet or dirty diaper output (for infants)
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea  
• Inability to keep food or liquids down
• High fevers
• Blood in their stool
• Signs of severe illness, such as lethargy or confusion 

How to Prevent the Stomach Flu 

With the flu, colds, and other germs lurking around every corner, it's important to take steps to keep your kids healthy. Encourage your child to have good hand hygiene. They should always wash their hands after using the bathroom and before eating but also after playing or coming inside from outdoors.  

Regular cleaning can help the spread of germs or bacteria. Disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. Avoid sharing food, drinks, and utensils with others. 

Viral illnesses and gastroenteritis can be very unpleasant for your child. We hope that these tips help keep your child more comfortable as they recover from their illness. If your child doesn’t seem to be getting better, seek medical attention or contact your primary care provider or pediatrician.   

 

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