Vomiting

Preventing The Back To School Stomach Bug

What to Know About Stomach Bugs in Kids

Every now and then, we see a wave of stomach bugs making their rounds—and lately, we’ve been seeing quite a few cases here at Keānuenue Pediatrics. These common but contagious viruses can spread quickly, especially among young children in schools or daycare.

Here’s what parents need to know about symptoms, treatment, and keeping your ʻohana healthy.

What Is a Stomach Bug?

Most cases of “stomach flu” (medically called viral gastroenteritis) are caused by viruses like norovirus or rotavirus. They spread easily—especially in families—and usually last 3 to 7 days.

Common symptoms include:

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Crampy belly pain that comes and goes

• Low appetite

• Sometimes a low-grade fever

How to Care for a Child With a Stomach Bug

The #1 priority? Hydration.

Most children lose more fluids than they can keep down, so even if they’re not eating, it’s essential to help them stay hydrated.

Tips for hydration:

• Offer small sips of fluid every 5–10 minutes

• Use oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte to help replace lost electrolytes

• Avoid sugary drinks (juice, soda, sports drinks), which can worsen diarrhea

• Let your child rest as needed—don’t push them to eat if they’re not ready

Watch for Signs of Dehydration

Most stomach bugs resolve on their own, but call us if you notice:

• Lethargy or listlessness

• Irritability that doesn’t improve

• Sunken eyes or dry mouth

• Paleness or cool hands and feet

• Decreased urine (no wet diaper for 6+ hours or very dark pee)

• Blood in vomit or stool

• Persistent fever (more than 5 days)

• Severe stomach pain

We’re here to help—by phone, in the clinic, or via telehealth.

How to Prevent the Stomach Bug

Handwashing is key. Children under age 6 usually need supervision. Make sure they use soap and water and wash for at least 20 seconds—singing “Happy Birthday” twice is a fun way to time it.

Other prevention tips:

• Disinfect high-touch surfaces (doorknobs, remote controls, phones, etc.)

• Avoid sharing food, utensils, or cups

• Encourage keiki to keep hands out of their mouths and off their faces

• Keep sick children home until symptoms have fully resolved

How to Protect Your Household

Stomach viruses can live on surfaces for days. If someone in the house is sick:

• Clean exposed areas with a bleach-based disinfectant

• Wash towels, sheets, and clothing in hot water

• Don’t forget to disinfect bathroom surfaces and shared items like toys

With a little extra care, you can help limit the spread to other members of your ʻohana.

If you’re ever unsure about your child’s symptoms or need guidance, call us. You know your child best, and we’re always here to help you navigate illness with calm, care, and clarity.