Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea—ick. No matter the source, no one wants to be sick during the holiday season.

It can be difficult to tell the difference between food poisoning and a stomach virus, which is why our team at AFC Urgent Care TN wants to share some insight.

Are Food Poisoning and the Stomach Virus the Same Thing?

No—they’re two completely different things. Food poisoning is the direct result of the consumption of a contaminated food or beverage.

The stomach bug (or “flu”), on the other hand, is a contagious illness that’s based from person to person through airborne droplets.

Ways to Prevent Food Poisoning

• Wash your hands regularly.
• Wash worktops.
• Wash dishcloths.
• Use separate chopping boards.
• Keep raw meat separate from ready-to-eat foods.
• Cook food thoroughly.
• Refrigerate leftovers quickly .
• Watch use-by dates.

What Is the Treatment for Food Poisoning?

When it comes to food poisoning, you usually just need to let the symptoms run their course. However, you do need to ensure you stay hydrated.

Since symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea can dehydrate your body, you need to sip on water and electrolyte-replenishing drinks to avoid dehydration.

Foods That Often Cause Food Poisoning

• Poultry
• Vegetables and leafy greens
• Fish and shellfish
• Deli meats
• Rice
• Unpasteurized dairy
• Eggs
• Fruit

Not sure what’s causing your stomach issues? Our AFC Urgent Care TN locations are open seven days a week in order to better care for our community members.