How to Care for a Child with the Stomach Flu

Learn how to safely care for your child when they have the stomach flu, including hydration, comfort measures, and when to call the doctor.

1. Keep Your Child Hydrated. The biggest concern with stomach flu is dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea. Offer small, frequent sips of clear fluids every 15-20 minutes. Start with just a teaspoon or two at a time to avoid overwhelming their stomach. Good options include water, clear broths, electrolyte solutions designed for children, or diluted sports drinks. Avoid fruit juices, sodas, and milk as these can make diarrhea worse. If your child is breastfeeding, continue nursing more frequently but for shorter periods.
2. Manage Vomiting and Nausea. When your child is actively vomiting, let their stomach rest for 30-60 minutes before offering any fluids. Start with ice chips or small sips of clear liquids. Keep a bowl or bucket nearby and help your child sit up when vomiting to prevent choking. Rinse their mouth with water after vomiting to remove the bad taste. Some children find ginger ale (flat, not fizzy) or ginger tea helpful for nausea, but check with your pediatrician first.
3. Provide Comfort and Rest. Your child needs plenty of rest to recover. Keep them home from school or daycare and encourage quiet activities like reading or watching movies. Use a cool, damp washcloth on their forehead if they feel feverish. Dress them in loose, comfortable clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature. A heating pad on low or warm compress on their stomach may help with cramping, but never leave young children alone with heating devices.
4. Gradually Reintroduce Food. Once vomiting stops for several hours, start with small amounts of bland foods. The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) is gentle on the stomach. Other good options include plain crackers, plain pasta, or clear soups. Avoid dairy, fatty foods, spicy foods, and anything with strong flavors until your child feels completely better. Let your child's appetite guide you - don't force food if they're not ready.
5. Prevent Spreading the Illness. Stomach flu is very contagious. Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently with soap and water, especially after helping your sick child. Have your child wash their hands often too, or use hand sanitizer if they can't get to a sink. Clean and disinfect surfaces your child touches, including bathroom fixtures, door handles, and toys. Wash their bedding and clothes in hot water. Keep your sick child away from siblings when possible, and don't send them back to school until they've been symptom-free for at least 24 hours.