Stomach bug: what helps at home and when to see a doctor

In short: A stomach bug (gastrointestinal infection) usually shows itself through nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea and is often caused by viruses. In otherwise healthy adults it often clears up on its own within a few days.

In more detail: The most important thing is to replace lost fluids and salts and to protect others from infection. Babies, young children, older people and those with chronic illnesses are particularly at risk of dehydration.

Note: This does not replace medical advice.

In detail

• Common causes: Many infections are caused by viruses such as norovirus or rotavirus, some also by bacteria from spoiled or insufficiently heated food.
• Drink plenty: Drink small amounts regularly, such as water or herbal tea; pharmacies also sell electrolyte solutions, and you can get advice about them there (trinken-und-fluessigkeitsbedarf).
• Light food: As soon as your appetite returns, easily digestible foods such as rusks, rice, potatoes or bananas are suitable; it is better to avoid fatty and heavily spiced food.
• Rest: Take it easy and stay at home until the symptoms have subsided.
• Hygiene: Thorough handwashing after using the toilet and before eating, separate towels and cleaning the toilet and washbasin reduce the risk of infection for others in the household.
• Highly contagious: Noroviruses are transmitted by even tiny amounts; people who are ill should not cook for others if possible.
• Nursery, school and work: Special rules apply to childcare and school settings and to jobs involving food about when you may return; if in doubt, ask the institution, your employer or your doctor’s practice.
• Warning signs: Medical help is needed if there are signs of dehydration such as passing very little urine, severe dizziness or drowsiness, blood in the stool, high fever, severe abdominal pain, or if symptoms last several days.
• Children and older people: For babies, young children and older or frail people, medical advice should be sought sooner; outside surgery hours 116117 can help, and in an emergency call 112 (haende-waschen-und-hygiene, aerztlicher-bereitschaftsdienst-116117).