The seasonal flu and stomach flu are completely different illnesses.
The flu is triggered by theinfluenza virusand symptoms mostly involve the upper respiratory tract.
This article covers the differences between the seasonal flu and the stomach flu.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
It discusses symptoms, treatment, and when to call a healthcare provider.
Symptoms
Influenza comes on suddenly and will make you feel terrible.
Gastroenteritis
The stomach flu is a completely different virus from the seasonal flu.
As such, it cannot be prevented by getting a flu vaccination.
The stomach flu is most often because of norovirus, rotavirus, or a foodborne bacteria.
Norovirus is the most common cause and symptoms typically last one to two days.
Vomiting usually lasts no longer than24 hours; diarrhea may continue for several days after that.
You may need different treatments depending on your diagnosis.
Flu symptoms typically last longer than stomach flu symptoms.
The flu mostly affects the upper respiratory tract, while the stomach flu causes gastrointestinal problems.
If you suspect you have influenza, see your practitioner immediately for testing and treatment.
Xu J, Murphy SL, Kochanek KD, Arias E.Mortality in the United States, 2021.NCHS Data Brief.
2022;(456):1-8.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Leading Causes of Death.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Flu Symptoms & Complications.
Penn Medicine.Flu (Influenza).
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Symptoms & Causes of Viral Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Norovirus illness: key facts.
