Stomach Flu in Babies
Ask any parents how long stomach flu lasts in babies and their response is sure to be, “Too long!” Indeed, a simple 24-hour bug can give you the illusion that your baby will be sick forever. Stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, is not influenza—-rather, it’s a catch-all term for an illness caused by one of many types of viruses producing similar symptoms of aches and vomiting.
Time Frame
Stomach flu’s duration depends on your baby’s immune system and the particular virus your baby contracts. Generally, stomach flu in babies lasts anywhere from 24 hours to seven days, though not all symptoms will last the entire duration of illness. Vomiting may last only two days, while your child may have diarrhea for up to a week.
Types
Stomach flu is caused by one of many viruses. Rotavirus is the leading cause of stomach flu for children age 3 to 15 months. Other stomach flu culprits include adenovirus, caliciviruses, astrovirus and bacteria caused by food poisoning.
Effects
All strains of the stomach flu produce similar symptoms—-vomiting, diarrhea, aches, fever, abdominal pain, fatigue and headaches.
Prevention/Solution
Since it’s viral, stomach flu cannot be treated by antibiotics. The best cure is to have your baby drink plenty of fluids. The illness will just run its course as long as your little one is not dehydrated. Try giving your baby electrolyte-fortified juice and sips of water and ice chips to much on. Breastfed babies should be allowed to nurse freely since breast milk is so gentle on the stomach. Formula-fed babies should be given diluted formula. Call your baby’s doctor if you have any questions.
You can minimize your baby’s risk of contracting stomach flu by regularly washing your and your baby’s hands and by making sure baby does not share eating utensils or teething toys. As much as you can, keep your baby away from people who’ve recently been sick. Keep in mind that people can still be contagious days after their symptoms disappear.
Warning
