How To Prevent The Stomach Flu: 13 Proven Ways to Stay Healthy [Gastroenteritis]

Healthbeautyidea.com | How To Prevent The Stomach Flu – Stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, is a common illness that affects millions of people around the world. 

The stomach flu is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the digestive tract involving the stomach and the small intestine, resulting in a combination of diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain and cramps.

This disease is an infection that occurs in the stomach or intestine caused by some types of virus. This infection causes the onset of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and even sometimes cause fever.

Norovirus is a common cause of stomach flu, leading to inflammation in the stomach and intestines.. The virus was found in contaminated food and drink. It can survive on surfaces and spread through direct contact with infected individuals.. Stomach flu is very contagious.

Fortunately, there are several simple ways to prevent the stomach flu and keep it at bay. In this article, we will discuss of these methods.

How To Prevent The Stomach Flu

Here are some ways to prevent stomach flu:

1. Proper Handwashing Technique

Many people wash their hands incorrectly, reducing effectiveness. Follow these CDC-approved steps:

1️⃣ Wet your hands with clean running water.
2️⃣ Apply soap and lather thoroughly, including between fingers and under nails.
3️⃣ Scrub for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes to hum “Happy Birthday” twice).
4️⃣ Rinse under clean water.
5️⃣ Dry hands with a clean towel or air dry.

Why It Works? Studies show that proper handwashing reduces the risk of viral infections, including norovirus, by 30-50%.

2. Food Handling Tips to Prevent Stomach Flu

Contaminated food is a major source of stomach flu viruses. Reduce your risk with these safety tips:

🍗 Cook food thoroughly – Use a food thermometer to ensure meats reach a safe internal temperature (e.g., chicken: 165°F / 74°C).
🍏 Wash fruits and vegetables – Rinse under running water, even if peeling.
🧼 Sanitize kitchen surfaces – Cutting boards, utensils, and countertops can harbor bacteria.
🚫 Avoid cross-contamination – Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and fresh produce.

Adhering to guidelines on preventing Salmonella can significantly lower the chances of developing gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as the stomach flu.

3. Food and beverage consumption.

• Avoid consumption of raw foods such as veggies or fruits already peeled and touched by other people.
• Do not consume meat that isn’t cooked, make sure in advance to cook until done.
• While outside the home, purchase bottled water, this is to avoid consuming water contaminated by others.

Implementing stringent food safety practices is crucial in preventing not only foodborne illnesses but also reducing the risk of contracting the stomach flu.

4. Avoid Sharing Food and Drink

Sharing food and drink with others can increase your risk of getting the stomach flu. This is because the virus or bacteria that causes the illness can be easily spread through contaminated food and drink. Avoid sharing utensils, cups, plates, and food with others, especially if they are sick.

5. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is a common complication of the stomach flu, as vomiting and diarrhea can cause a loss of fluids and electrolytes. To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of fluids, such as water, tea, broth, and sports drinks. Avoid drinks that are high in sugar or caffeine, as these can worsen dehydration.

6. Disinfecting Surfaces to Eradicate Stomach Flu Viruses

Norovirus, a common cause of stomach flu, can survive on surfaces for up to 2 weeks! To prevent transmission:

✅ Use bleach-based disinfectants on high-touch surfaces (doorknobs, light switches, countertops).
✅ Clean contaminated laundry immediately using hot water (at least 140°F/60°C).
✅ Sanitize bathroom surfaces daily if someone in your home is sick.
✅ Wash children’s toys frequently, as viruses can linger on plastic and fabric.

7. Avoid Contact with Sick People

Avoiding contact with sick people is another important way to prevent the stomach flu. If someone in your household or workplace is sick, avoid close contact with them. This includes hugging, kissing, shaking hands, and sharing personal items. If you have to care for someone who is sick, wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself.

8. Take Probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your digestive system. Taking probiotics can help prevent the stomach flu by boosting your immune system and promoting the growth of healthy bacteria in your gut. You can get probiotics from foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, or from supplements.

Maintaining stomach health through preventive measures against gastritis can also contribute to a reduced risk of stomach flu.

9. Practice Good Personal Hygiene

Practicing good personal hygiene is another important way to prevent the stomach flu. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash. It also includes showering or bathing regularly, wearing clean clothes, and keeping your home and workplace clean.

10. Use of personal equipment.

When one of the family members there who are stricken with stomach flu, avoid the use of towels and eating utensils simultaneously.

11. Stay Home if You’re Sick

If you have the stomach flu, stay home from work or school until you are feeling better. This will help prevent the spread of the illness to others. Also, avoid close contact with others, and cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

12. Vaccine.

Because of its effectiveness and safety, in 2009 the World Health Organization recommends that rotavirus vaccine is given to all children throughout the world.

This vaccine can also prevent the wide-spread of the disease in children who are not vaccinated by way of reducing the number of infections that are outstanding.

13. How to Prevent Stomach Flu While Traveling

Traveling increases your exposure to new bacteria and viruses. Stay protected with these tips:

✈️ Drink bottled water – In regions with questionable water safety, avoid tap water and ice cubes.
🍴 Eat at reputable restaurants – Street food may not follow proper hygiene standards.
👐 Carry hand sanitizer – Use an alcohol-based sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) when soap and water aren’t available.
🧴 Wipe down airplane trays & hotel surfaces – Use disinfecting wipes to kill germs in high-contact areas.

FAQs About Stomach Flu