What causes Stomach Flu during Summers?

The stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis, is a common illness that affects people of all ages. While it can occur at any time of the year, its incidence tends to increase during the summer months.

Why stomach flu increases in summer:

1. Warm weather: Hot temperatures and humidity create an ideal environment for viruses like norovirus, rotavirus, and adenovirus to thrive.
2. Increased Outdoor Activity: Summer is a time when people engage in outdoor activities, travel, swimming and socialize more frequently, which can lead to the spread of infectious diseases. School going children are more prone.
3. Contaminated food and water: Warm weather can cause bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter to multiply rapidly on contaminated food and water, increasing the risk of stomach flu.
4. Poor hygiene: When people are more active outdoors, they may not practice good hygiene habits, such as washing their hands regularly, which can spread infections.

What Causes Stomach flu, Is it bacteria or virus?

It's almost always caused by a virus, not bacteria (though bacterial infections can cause similar symptoms). Here are the most common virus

1. Norovirus: This is the most common cause. It's highly contagious and causes outbreaks, especially in closed environments (cruises, dorms, nursing homes). It's notorious for its rapid spread.
2. Rotavirus: More common in children, though vaccination has significantly reduced its prevalence. Still a possibility, especially in unvaccinated individual. Some Preventable Vaccines are given a birth to reduce complication arising from such pathogens.
3. Adenovirus: Can cause a wider range of symptoms, including respiratory issues, in addition to gastrointestinal problems.
4. Astrovirus: Less common than norovirus or rotavirus, but can still cause illness.

How Does Stomach Flu Spread:

Fecal-Oral Route: Not washing hands properly after using the toilet or changing diapers. Contaminated food or water. Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth.

Respiratory Droplets: Some viruses (like adenovirus) can also spread through respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.

Top Sign of typical Stomach Flu:

Symptoms typically start 12-48 hours after exposure. They can last 1-3 days.

Diarrhea: Frequent, watery stools. This is a hallmark symptom.

Vomiting: Can be forceful and frequent.

Nausea: A feeling of wanting to vomit.

Abdominal Cramps/Pain: Discomfort in the stomach area.

Fever: Usually mild, but can be higher. Fever is body's natural defense response to fighting any illness, many other viral illness in small children can cause it.

Headache, Body Aches, Loss of Appetite.

What To Do in case of Stomach Flu

Hydration is Key: This is the most important thing.

Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): These contain electrolytes that are lost through vomiting and diarrhea.

Clear Broths: Chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium).

Water: Sip small amounts frequently.

Diluted Juice: Apple juice, grape juice (diluted with water).

Bland Diet: Once you can tolerate liquids, gradually introduce bland foods:

Plain Yogurt: The probiotics may help restore gut bacteria.

Rest: Get plenty of sleep.

Handwashing: Meticulous handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is crucial to prevent spreading the virus to others. Especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before eating.

Disinfect Surfaces: Clean frequently touched surfaces (doorknobs, light switches, countertops, toilet handles) with a disinfectant or antiseptic products.

What Not to Do when you have Stomach Flu:

Laxatives: Will only worsen diarrhea.

Dairy Products: While some can tolerate yogurt, dairy can sometimes exacerbate symptoms in some people.

Greasy or Fried Foods: Difficult to digest.

Caffeine and Alcohol: Can dehydrate you further.