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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Stomach Flu and Flu?

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The main difference between stomach flu and the flu (influenza) lies in the affected areas of the body and the causes of the illnesses. Here are the key differences:

  • Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis): This is an infection of the stomach and intestines, typically caused by viruses such as norovirus, rotavirus, adenovirus, or astrovirus. It can also be caused by bacteria, parasites, food reactions, or unclean water. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever. Stomach flu usually lasts for three to seven days and sometimes up to 10 days. Antibiotics are not effective in treating stomach flu caused by viruses.
  • Influenza (Flu): This is an infection of the respiratory system, affecting the nose, throat, and lungs, and is caused by the Influenza virus. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, sore throat, cough, congestion, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. Influenza can lead to more severe illnesses like pneumonia and can be prevented with a flu shot. Antibiotics can sometimes be used to treat complications from the flu, such as bacterial pneumonia.

In summary, stomach flu is an infection of the gastrointestinal system, while influenza is an infection of the respiratory system. They have different causes, symptoms, and treatments.

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  • What is the Difference Between Stomach Flu and Flu?
  • Comparative Table: Stomach Flu vs Flu

    • Comparative Table: Stomach Flu vs Flu

    Stomach flu and influenza are two distinct conditions with different symptoms, causes, and treatments. Here is a table comparing the differences between the two:

    Stomach Flu Influenza
    Infection of the stomach and intestines, typically due to viruses such as norovirus Infection of the throat, nose, and sometimes lungs, caused by influenza A and B viruses
    Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever Symptoms include sore throat, runny nose, body aches, coughing, and shortness of breath
    Does not cause respiratory symptoms Causes respiratory symptoms
    Symptoms generally last a shorter duration Symptoms typically last longer
    Spread through infected droplets, contaminated surfaces, or by touching an infected person Spread through infected droplets from sneezing, coughing, or talking

    To prevent the spread of either illness, it is recommended to practice good hygiene, social distance, and avoid contact with infected individuals.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.