How contagious is the stomach flu and how can I prevent it?

So the stomach flu has been going around my town. A handful of kids at my school got it, and my sister, who goes to an elementary school now has it. I have a HUGE fear of throwing up. I have been washing my hands constantly, and disinfecting everything... seriously, I'm going crazy! How contagious is it and can I take any more preventative measures?
Answer:

there is really no such thing as the stomach flu. There are several bacteria/viruses/other pathogens that affect the stomach and GI tract but not a real "stomach flu". In addition, each "bug" has its own contagious factor. whatever illness is going around, just keep doing what you are doing. Wash your hands especially before eating and avoid touching your face are the two big precautions. Drink your orange juice too! :P Side note: a common cause of school infections is Norwalk virus. 24 hour incubation, 24 hours of vomiting/diarrhea and then you are good to go again. If this is whats going around it is highly contagious and lingers on surfaces for a long time. Just keep hydrated and make it to the other side of that 24 hour window!

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there is really no such thing as the stomach flu. There are several bacteria/viruses/other pathogens that affect the stomach and GI tract but not a real "stomach flu". In addition, each "bug" has its own contagious factor. whatever illness is going around, just keep doing what you are doing. Wash your hands especially before eating and avoid touching your face are the two big precautions. Drink your orange juice too! :P Side note: a common cause of school infections is Norwalk virus. 24 hour incubation, 24 hours of vomiting/diarrhea and then you are good to go again. If this is whats going around it is highly contagious and lingers on surfaces for a long time. Just keep hydrated and make it to the other side of that 24 hour window!

Rachel

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