He says , ‘ Although the period between November and May usually coincides with an increase in diarrhoea and pneumonia cases , according to Dr Zahid Badroodien , MMC : Community Services and Health , it is significantly reduced with a 29 % decrease in cases and a 15 % decrease in hospital admissions . The decline is partially attributed to the increased adherence to health protocols for COVID-19 like hand-washing , sanitisation and wearing masks .’
What are the symptoms of a tummy bug ? A stomach bug is known as viral gastroenteritis and characterised by the following symptoms :
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Thirst
• Joint aches
• Headache
• General malaise
How long does a stomach bug last ? People typically develop stomach bug symptoms within 24 to 72 hours of being exposed to the virus . While most cases resolve in three to four days , it ’ s not uncommon to feel unwell for up to a week .
How do you know if it ’ s food poisoning or a stomach virus ? The symptoms of food poisoning and a stomach virus are remarkably similar . However , food poisoning symptoms develop in a few hours . Most people suspect food poisoning when symptoms develop shortly after eating food and can often pinpoint the food responsible .
COVID-19 and gastroenteritis Research consistently shows that approximately 10 % of adults with COVID-19 , report GI symptoms such as nausea , vomiting or diarrhoea . Typically , patients will also have the more common upper respiratory symptoms that accompany COVID-19 , such as a dry cough or difficulty breathing .
How do you tell the difference between COVID-19 symptoms and ‘ stomach flu ’? So , how do you know which one you ’ re dealing with if you ’ re experiencing , for instance , a fever , vomiting , and diarrhoea ? ‘ Unfortunately , it is not always easy ,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa , ‘ if you have respiratory symptoms , ( particularly chest pain ) and loss of smell or taste , it is pretty clear cut . However , GI symptoms can occur on their own with COVID-19 . A stomach bug also typically lasts only 72 hours while GI related symptoms with the coronavirus can last much longer .’
What should you do if you suspect the GI symptoms are in fact , COVID-19 related ? Consult your doctor – via phone or virtually – to discuss your symptoms and if he / she feels you are displaying signs of the coronavirus infection , you will be referred for a COVID-19 test .
How long are you contagious with a stomach bug ? Stomach viruses are highly contagious and can spread quickly . People infected with a stomach virus are contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill as well as for the first few days ( up to 72 hours ) after they recover .
A stomach virus can spread in several different ways :
• Eating food or drinking liquids that have been contaminated with the virus
• Having direct or indirect mouth contact with an infected person or surface with the virus on it
• Unhygienic behaviour , such as not washing hands after toilet use , not washing fruits and vegetables before consumption
• The virus also inhabits the vomit and stools of people who have the infection
How do you treat or get rid of a stomach bug ? Supportive therapy that includes increased hydration , rest , electrolyte replenishment and medication for fever is usually all that is needed for viral illnesses . This is because viruses do not respond to antibiotics and simply need to run their course . If the infection is caused by bacteria , like Salmonella , an antibiotic may be prescribed .
Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 2 | 2021
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