Food Poisoning vs. the Stomach Flu: What You Need to Know

We’ve all been there: A small ache in your stomach suddenly turns into a full-on rebellion. The most common culprits are food poisoning or the stomach flu, both of which can cause major life disruptions. But how can you avoid them, and what should you do if you are unexpectedly doubled over in misery?

Marwa Abd Alla, MD, a board-certified primary care physician specializing in family medicine and obesity medicine at Memorial Hermann Medical Group at Cross Creek Ranch discusses food poisoning versus the stomach flu and what symptoms to expect and when to seek medical care.

Understanding Food Poisoning

When it comes to food poisoning, Dr. Abd Alla explained that it typically results from contaminated food or drink. "Food poisoning occurs when you consume food or beverages contaminated either with preformed bacterial toxins or with bacteria that later produce those toxins in your gut," she said.

The onset of symptoms is typically rapid—usually within a few hours—if the toxins are already in the food. However, it can sometimes take up to 24 hours if the bacteria require time to produce the toxins. Regarding symptoms, Dr. Abd Alla explained that food poisoning is usually marked by the following:

• Stomach cramps
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea (which may be watery or bloody)
• Nausea
• Fever and chills may be present, especially with bacterial infections

Thankfully, food poisoning does not travel from person to person, and the symptoms typically resolve themselves with rest and hydration. However, you should consider seeking medical assistance if you are immunocompromised or if any of the following symptoms persist:

• Severe dehydration
• Fever 102°F or higher
• Blood in stool or vomit
• Confusion, rapid heartbeat or fainting
• Symptoms that last longer than a few days without improvement

When it comes to prevention, care with food preparation is key to mitigating your risk of food poisoning. In particular, Dr. Abd Alla advises the following: 

• Cook meats to the appropriate internal temperature
  • Poultry to 165°F
  • Seafood, pork and beef to 145°F
  • Shellfish until the shell opens
• Reheat all meat leftovers to 165°F
• Refrigerate leftover meat and poultry at 40°F
• Wash knives, cutting boards, and preparation surfaces with hot water and soap after contact with raw meat
• Avoid food containing raw or undercooked eggs
• Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before consumption

Unraveling the Stomach Flu

On the other hand, the stomach flu is caused by viruses that travel from person to person. "The stomach flu, or viral gastroenteritis, is primarily caused by viruses, with norovirus being the most common culprit,” said Dr. Abd Alla. “In children, rotavirus can  cause severe diarrhea."

The viral nature of the stomach flu makes it highly contagious, spreading through close contact, interaction with contaminated surfaces, touching of the mouth, or sharing food and water with an infected individual. “Environments where people are in close proximity, such as daycares, nursing homes, or cruise ships, present an optimal situation for the virus to spread," she said.

While the symptoms of both conditions are similar, the viral stomach flu tends to have a slower onset and results in watery diarrhea alongside vomiting. In the case of rotavirus, infants can be vaccinated to help prevent its spread, but there is no norovirus vaccine. Slowing or stopping the spread of viruses that cause the stomach flu involves good hygiene and thoughtful interaction with your environment:

• Wash your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds—encourage children to sing a song to make sure they wash for the right amount of time
• Avoid placing hands in your mouth or on your face, especially when out in public
• Avoid close contact with infected individuals
• Disinfect surfaces with a bleach-based cleaner (alcohol won’t do much to prevent the norovirus)
• Ensure proper food handling and cooking, keeping ill individuals away from the kitchen as much as possible

Protect Yourself from Stomach Troubles

Both food poisoning and the stomach flu can leave you feeling miserable, but understanding their differences can help you take the right precautions and seek appropriate care. Food poisoning strikes quickly after consuming contaminated food, whereas the stomach flu is a viral infection that spreads easily from person to person and is slower on the uptake. While most cases resolve on their own with rest and hydration, knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial—especially if symptoms are severe or prolonged.

Preventive measures, such as proper food handling, hygiene and vaccination against rotavirus for infants, can significantly reduce the risk. By staying informed and taking simple precautions, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from these unwelcome stomach troubles. Stay safe, stay hydrated and, when in doubt, consult a health care professional.

Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center

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