02/16/2026
Stomach Bug vs. Food Poisoning — What’s the Difference? 🤢
They can feel very similar, but there are a few key differences!
🦠 Stomach Bug (Viral Gastroenteritis)
• Caused by a virus
• Spreads easily from person to person
• Symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, low-grade fever, body aches
• Usually lasts 1–3 days
• Often multiple people in the household get sick
🍽️ Food Poisoning
• Caused by bacteria or toxins in contaminated food
• Not usually spread person-to-person
• Symptoms: sudden nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain
• May include fever
• Symptoms often start within hours after eating contaminated food
💧 Both Can Cause:
• Dehydration
• Weakness
• Headache
🚨 Come See Us If You Have:
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, little to no urination, dizziness)
• High fever
• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Symptoms lasting more than 3 days
• Infants, elderly patients, or those with weakened immune systems
We’re here to help you feel better faster — walk-ins welcome!
📍 144 US Hwy 278 Guin, AL 35563
📍 Walk-ins welcome
📞 205-468-3715