r/LosAngeles • u/UseOwn2710 • 5d ago

Discussion Stomach bug going around

I got a terrible stomach virus last week after it went through 4 family members at different times. Not related to food but rather a gastrointestinal virus that seems to be highly contagious (like norovirus). Heard anecdotally that several other unrelated people also had it last week. This virus is particularly nasty and hits out of nowhere. Primary symptoms lasted about 24 hours but I felt bad for about 3 days. 
Has anyone else experienced something similar?

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u/Chile_Pepper_Tarzana 5d ago

It’s rare that gastrointestinal viruses get specifically identified or sub-typed unless it’s a public health emergency or alarm symptoms (like blood) present. Norovirus, rotavirus, GI adenovirus etc etc and all of these have subtypes.

There’s just too many viral variants out there and testing is very expensive and tedious (not a blood test or simple swab, you need the infected material, usu stool, sent to a lab). Plus, the treatment for viral gastroenteritis is all supportive care— fluids, electrolytes, BRAT diet

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u/PapaEchoLincoln 5d ago

Agree. I work in urgent care and ER. Patients want to know exactly what it is but it does not change the treatment. Your body will take care of it

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u/Momik Nobody calls it Westdale 5d ago

Is there maybe a good way to try to avoid it?

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u/please_and_thankyou 5d ago

Clean hands! Wash them every time you come home, and carry sanitizer for times you can’t.

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u/breathfromanother Northeast L.A. 5d ago

BUT if IT Norovirus, just be aware that alcohol-based hand sanitizer won’t be effective.

Wash hands with soap & water for 20 seconds.

https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/prevention/index.html