Every winter it seems like the stomach flu hits the US It spreads quickly and with determination to wipe out everyone in its path. When your home hits, what should you do? Viruses are very contagious and can spread quickly, so if you or someone in your household is sick, try to isolate yourself from other people. Try to keep them in one room and don’t let them roam around the house, simply spreading germs. Also, clean after them constantly, using sprays like Lysol, cleaning wipes, bleaching dishes, etc. Cleans remote controls, telephones, keyboards, furniture, as well as the usual bathrooms, sheets and towels.

If it really is a stomach virus and there is vomiting, stop all liquids and food for a while until the vomiting subsides or stops. Ice chips can be used once vomiting has subsided. Chunks of ice melt and absorb primarily into the tissues of the mouth, allowing for some hydration without filling the stomach with fluid to further aggravate vomiting. A liquid like ginger ale, clear soda, or even an electrolyte drink can be added to the ice chips for a little extra flavor and energy. Be careful not to use highly sugary drinks, as they can cause an upset stomach again.

Other things to try to replenish the fluids in your body are popsicles and gelatin. They are good especially for children. There are even popsicles available that are made from rehydration fluids, or you can make your own at home by freezing the liquid in a container at home. If the person who is sick, especially a child, has not urinated in six hours, they may be dehydrating and a call to the doctor may be helpful.

The most important thing is to rest. Don’t push yourself to improve, don’t do too much too soon, or do anything strenuous from the start. The virus will need to run its course to a certain point and then your body will begin to recover. Be careful not to use products and medications too early in the illness that could prevent the virus from leaving your system. For example, it may be a good idea to let the diarrhea go for a while before taking antidiarrheal medicine. Also, there are anti-nausea medications that can be used, but again, only after symptoms have been present for a while. Your doctor can help you with that. Many say that it is best not even to take any medications unless there is uncontrolled vomiting or diarrhea causing dehydration.

Once symptoms have ceased, an ABC or BRAT diet should be followed, even for adults. Since the lining of the stomach can change with a virus, it is important to go back to eating regular foods and not rushing. ABC stands for applesauce, bananas and cereals, usually rice cereal. All of these are easy on the stomach and digest well. There are also some vitamins and minerals that can be absorbed from eating these foods, especially bananas. BRAT is pretty much the same as it includes bananas, rice cereal, and applesauce, but it also includes toast. Don’t use a lot of butter on that toast! It is also a good idea to avoid or limit all dairy products and acidic foods for a few days.