Tummy bugs, stomach flu, the bug, whatever you want to call it, is nasty business for all involved. We know that one sick child can take down a whole family when it hits, but there are ways you can minimise the disruption to your daily life if you follow these five easy steps for an easier recovery.

1.  Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is a top priority when dealing with tummy bugs. Vomiting, diarrhoea, fever and loss of appetite can lead to dehydration. Seek medical advice if vomiting or diarrhoea persists from more than 6 hours in infants under 6 months, 12 hours in children under 3 years, 24 hours in children aged 3-6 years and 48 hours in children over 6 years and adults.

According to the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, many cases can be managed effectively with oral rehydration solutions. Oral rehydration solutions, such as Hydralyte, help to replace water and electrolytes.

o    For children – Hydralyte Frozen Ice Blocks are perfect for all aged children. They come in four different flavours (Orange, Apple Blackcurrant, Strawberry Kiwi and Colour Free Lemonade) and sucking on them will assist to rehydrate. Hydralyte ready-to-use solutions are also convenient and can be placed directly into your little one’s sippy cup or bottle.

o    For adults – Hydralyte Powder Sachets and Effervescent Tablets are scientifically formulated to contain the correct balance of glucose and electrolytes for rapid rehydration.

2. Eat Clean

Try and avoid fatty foods or anything that contains milk or dairy. Babies should, however, continue milk feeds throughout and consume rehydration fluid such as Hydralyte® between feeds.

Breastfeeding mothers should continue breastfeeding and provide rehydration fluid between feeds. Reintroduce food in small portions and gradually build it up over time as the symptoms subside. Suitable foods to eat include plain toast, boiled potatoes or boiled rice.

3. Get Lots Of Rest

Like any situation where you are sick, the key is to let the body rest. Get to bed early and rest as much as you can to help it recover.

4. Wash Up

Think about your regular cleaning routine, but take it into overdrive. It’s worth it, if only for a little while. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and antibacterial foam especially after going to the toilet or changing nappies.

Keeping kitchen surfaces clean using paper towels instead of regular washcloths to wipe down surfaces and avoiding handling or preparing food without vigorous hand washing first.

You’ll find that taking these precautions will help reduce the risk of tummy bugs from spreading to others in your household.

5. Isolate Where Possible

Isolation is a necessary step in making sure others in your family and community don’t get sick as well.  This process means using a separate space where possible, such as bedrooms, bathrooms and eating areas until the illness subsides. Isolation and good hygiene help keep the spread of tummy bugs at bay. Health NSW recommends that infants and children attending childcare or school should be excluded from attending for 24 hours after the resolution of symptoms.

Following these steps will help you on your road to recovery quicker. However, the best medicine is always rehydration, rest and patience. If the symptoms are still there after a few days, then please consult your GP.

If you wish to know further about Hydralyte products, you can go here. 

References:

http://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/best-remedies-stomach-flu?isLazyLoad=false#brat-diet3

www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/gastroenteritis

http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/Viral-Gastroenteritis.aspx sited 14th August 2017

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