Stomach Bug Going Around? Read This!

There seems to be a stomach bug going around, so I wanted to share a quick reminder to help keep you and your family healthy.

While fruits and vegetables are normally an important part of a healthy diet, during a stomach bug outbreak it may be a good idea to be a little more careful with raw produce like bagged salads, leafy greens, berries, herbs, and unwashed fruits and vegetables. If they aren’t washed or handled properly, they can sometimes carry germs that cause stomach illnesses.

I’d also be cautious with buffet or self-serve foods, raw or undercooked shellfish (especially oysters), and anything that may have been handled by someone who is sick.

For now, choosing freshly cooked foods is one of the safest options. Soups, rice, potatoes, cooked vegetables, grilled chicken, toast, bananas, and oatmeal are all great choices since cooking helps reduce the risk of germs.

Most importantly, wash your hands well with soap and water before eating or preparing food. If someone in your household has the stomach bug, disinfect commonly touched surfaces and avoid preparing food for others until you’ve been symptom-free for at least 48 hours.

A few simple precautions can go a long way. Stay hydrated, take care of yourself, and let’s hope this bug passes soon.