Beware of Stomach Flu in Babies This Monsoon

As I told in this post of monsoon care for babies , viral infections and other illnesses related to it rise up during monsoon. Stomach flu also known as gastroenteritis is the prime among them. It is also known as D and V as its associated with diarrhoea and vomiting. Stomach flu is caused by rotavirus and persists for days . It can be cured with proper medication, hygiene , hydration and rest. Today’s post is about the stomach flu in babies and its preventive measures .

Breastfed babies are less prone to stomach flu as the antibodies in breast milk help to fight against the virus.

Babies who have started solids and kids in general are more prone as they might become subjected to unhygienic/ infected food and water .

Since this post is about stomach flu in babies , I have made it into a question answer form.

How can I know if my baby has stomach flu ?

Symptoms of stomach flu are :

Recurring Fever
Diarrhoea
Body aches / pain
Frequent vomiting
Loss of appetite
Bloated tummy
Fussiness and crying through out
Dry lips

What is the duration of stomach flu in babies ?

Stomach flu can persist anywhere between 1-2 days. But if the symptoms persists like fever above 101 degrees F, continuous vomiting or loose motions please consult the pediatrician immediately .

How can I treat stomach flu ?

Hydration and hygiene is the key . Make sure your baby is breastfed continuously or fed water , coconut water , ORS , kanji pani etc at regular intervals. Cut your baby’s nails as and when it grows.

Keep the hands and mouth of babies clean by wiping with baby wipes or washing with soap and water. Mop and clean the area where baby plays or rests. Avoid pets and pet litter to come in contact with the baby. Make sure the hands of parents are also washed and pat dried after using bathroom , handling pets , cleaning house , gardening, washing vegetables, changing diapers , handling garbage, meals or even after guiding older children to the bathroom.

Talk to your ped if rotavirus vaccine can be given to the baby . It’s an optional vaccine and your ped can guide you well .

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