A 23-year-old member asked:
Is the stomach flu the same as seasonal influenza?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Andrew Gentryanswered
Gastroenterology 22 years experience
No: Usually the seasonal influenza refers to respiratory infection or lung infection while stomach flu refers to virus that specializes in the gastrointestinal tract that usually leads to diarrhea or nausea or vomiting.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.1k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
No: Seasonal influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness characterized by fever, body aches, cough as the primary symptoms. Stomach flu, sometimes known as gastroenteritis, is diarrhea and vomiting. The flu shot will not protect you from stomach flu, but will reduce the liklihood of you catching influenza or reduce its severity. Great question! this is a common misconception.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Jan 5, 2019
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