What is Stomach Flu?
Stomach flu, medically known as viral gastroenteritis, is a common childhood illness that leads to inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
While the term “flu” might suggest a link to influenza, stomach flu is actually caused by viruses such as rotavirus and norovirus. These viruses are highly contagious and spread rapidly through contaminated food, water, and surfaces, making children—especially those in preschools and childcare settings—particularly vulnerable.
In Singapore, rotavirus infections are a significant concern, with studies estimating that one in five children under five years old will experience a rotavirus infection severe enough to require medical attention. While most cases resolve on their own, dehydration can become a serious complication, particularly in young children.
Recognising the Symptoms of Stomach Flu in Children
When stomach flu strikes, symptoms can appear suddenly. Parents may notice their child experiencing:
Frequent episodes of watery diarrhoea
Vomiting, sometimes forceful
Abdominal cramps and discomfort
Fever, which may be mild to moderate
Loss of appetite and reluctance to eat or drink
Dehydration, which can manifest as dry lips, sunken eyes, fewer wet diapers, and excessive sleepiness
Dr. Jacquelyn Melody, a CHAS-accredited doctor and senior physician at Oaklife Family Clinic, explains: “Stomach flu is highly contagious, especially among young children in shared spaces like childcare centres. Parents should pay close attention to signs of dehydration, as young children can lose fluids very quickly.”
Preventing Stomach Flu in Children
While stomach flu is common, there are several effective ways to reduce the risk of infection.
Hand Hygiene Matters
One of the most effective defences against stomach flu is proper handwashing. Young children should be taught to wash their hands thoroughly with soap, especially before eating and after using the toilet. Studies show that regular handwashing can reduce gastrointestinal infections by up to 50%. Parents can make this practice engaging by using colourful soaps, singing handwashing songs, or using a timer.
Practising Good Food & Bottle Hygiene
Food safety is another critical factor. Washing hands after handling raw meat, fish and eggs. Ensuring that food is cooked thoroughly, avoiding raw or undercooked meals, and washing fruits and vegetables before consumption can significantly reduce exposure to stomach flu-causing viruses.
Parents should also discourage children from sharing utensils, cups, or food with friends, as this increases the risk of viral transmission.
For newborn and infants, milk bottles need to be sterilised before each use.
Rotavirus Vaccination
In Singapore, the rotavirus vaccine is optional but recommended for infants. The vaccine helps protect against severe rotavirus infections, reducing hospitalisation rates by up to 90%.
Parents can consult a paediatrician at Oaklife Family Clinic to schedule this important vaccination.
Keeping the Environment Clean
Regularly disinfecting household surfaces, especially high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, toys, and bathroom counters, can help curb viral spread. Using child-safe disinfectants or diluted bleach solutions can be effective in eliminating viruses that linger on surfaces.
Caring for a Child with Stomach Flu
Despite best efforts, stomach flu can still occur. When a child falls sick, the primary focus should be on hydration, nutrition, and rest to aid recovery.
Prioritising Hydration
Dehydration is the most serious risk of stomach flu, as vomiting and diarrhoea cause rapid fluid loss. To keep a child hydrated, parents should offer small, frequent sips of fluids such as:
Oral rehydration solutions (ORS), which replenish lost electrolytes
Clear broths, such as chicken or vegetable broth, to provide some nutrients
Coconut water, a natural electrolyte source
Plain water, if tolerated
Sugary drinks and full-strength fruit juice should be avoided, as they can worsen diarrhoea. If a child is reluctant to drink, using a syringe or spoon to administer fluids may help.
For children below 12 months old
Breastfed baby should continue breastfeeding. Formula fed babies can continue their regular milk; consider switching to soy or lactose-free formula if diarrhoea persists for more a week.
Introducing Gentle, Nutritious Foods
Once vomiting subsides and the child is ready to eat, parents can introduce bland and easily digestible foods.
A simple banana and rice porridge can be soothing for the stomach while providing essential carbohydrates and potassium.
Another option is boiled potatoes with a pinch of salt, which can help replace lost sodium.
Avoid fatty food and spicy food.
Ensuring Plenty of Rest and Monitoring for Warning Signs
Rest is crucial for recovery. Children should be kept at home from school or childcare until their symptoms have fully resolved, usually 24 to 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea.
Parents should keep a close eye on any signs of severe dehydration, such as:
No tears when crying
Minimal urination (fewer than five wet diapers a day)
Extreme drowsiness or irritability
If symptoms persist beyond two days, if there is bloody diarrhoea, or if the child is unable to keep any fluids down, seek medical attention immediately.
When to Seek Medical Help
While most cases of stomach flu resolve on their own, parents should consult a doctor if:
The child has severe vomiting and cannot keep fluids down
Not willing to drink any fluids and unable to pass urine for more than 6 hours
There is blood in the stools or vomit
Severe stomach pain
The fever is persistently high (above 39°C)
The child shows signs of dehydration
At Oaklife Family Clinic, our doctors provide comprehensive care for children experiencing stomach flu. Parents can book an appointment to ensure their little ones receive the necessary medical attention.
FAQs About Stomach Flu in Children
Q. How long does stomach flu last in children?
A. Most cases last 1-3 days, but symptoms like mild diarrhoea may persist for up to a week.
Q. Is stomach flu contagious?
A. Yes, it spreads easily through contaminated food, water, and surfaces, as well as direct contact with an infected person.
Q. How can I tell if my child is dehydrated?
A. Look for signs like dry lips, sunken eyes, reduced urination, and lethargy. Seek medical help if severe dehydration occurs.
Q. Should I give my child antibiotics for stomach flu?
A. No, stomach flu is caused by viruses, and antibiotics only work against bacterial infections and may worsen the diarrhoea. Hydration and rest are key.
Q. Can my child drink milk during stomach flu?
A. Infants should continue to take their regular milk. However if symptoms persist for more than 10 days you may switch to soy or lactose-free formula. For children more than 12 months old, stop milk and other dairy products if they worsen the diarrhoea. Stick to oral rehydration salts, clear broths, and bland foods until recovery.
Q. When should I bring my child to a doctor?
A. Visit a doctor if your child has persistent vomiting, severe diarrhoea, high fever, bloody stools, severe stomach pain or signs of dehydration.