· Stomach flu is usually caused by norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug
· Similar symptoms like fever, headache, and dry cough in those infected with COVID-19 and stomach infections makes it challenging to detect
· Of all COVID patients received last year at Regency Hospital, Lucknow, 30% reported GI symptoms
· Doctors recommend maintaining hygiene, avoiding unhealthy or unhygienic food, and avoiding confined spaces with those infected
Stomach infection or ‘stomach flu’can belife-threateningfor infants, children, and elderly with a compromised immune system, especially during winters, doctors have noted. Stomach flu is usually caused by norovirus, also known as the ‘winter vomiting bug’. Symptoms like fever, headache and dry cough exist in COVID-19 but they are also common in people with a stomach flu or gastrointestinal issues (GI) like diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. This makes it challenging to detect COVID in cases which present with GI symptoms but lack in respiratory symptoms.
“The condition called viral gastroenteritis is also termed as an intestinal infection and it usually presents with nausea, fever, vomiting, watery diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Stomach infection is a matter of concern in winters as it can be deadly for infants and elderly with a compromised immune system. We advise avoiding stomach flu by proper hand washing and avoiding cross-contamination of food. Of all the COVID patients our hospital received in winters last year, almost 30% of them reported GI symptoms and majority of them were children and elderly,” says Dr Praveen Jha, MD, DM, Consultant Gastroenterology, Regency Superspeciality Hospital, Lucknow.
Gastroenteritis or stomach flu is inflammation or irritation of the intestines. Stomach pain is the most common symptom, but it can also involve the colon and small intestines. People with a weakened immune system are more likely to get severe COVID-19 and their GI symptoms can make it worse.
“It is a matter of concern as now Omicron, a highly mutated variant of coronavirus, has surfaced, and many states are reporting the new cases. We recommend COVID vaccination for elderly and if need be, a booster dose as well. Since trials are underway for vaccinating children, we advise proper hand wash hygiene for them, besides avoiding unhealthy or unhygienic food,” says Dr Praveen Jha.
People in confined spaces need to take extra precaution as the infection can spread from already infected person to others. Apart from norovirus, another cause for stomach flu can be rotavirus. Notably, those affected with rotavirus may not show symptoms and still pass it on to others.
Other symptoms of stomach infection or stomach flu may include less urine output, dizziness, extreme thirst and sunken cheek or eyes. Those who have an impaired immune system or are immunocompromised are highly susceptible to contract an infection such as GI, as their bodies are not able to generate enough response to fight infections.
“Maintaining hygiene is the key. Do not touch edibles with unwashed hands, ensure hydration and avoid unhealthy food. In cases with symptoms of vomiting and nausea, ginger or peppermint tea can provide some relief,” adds Dr Praveen Jha.
