Stomach Bugs Going Around Altoona Schools: Recognizing Viral Gastroenteritis in Kids

Now that the school year is underway across the Altoona area, it doesn’t take long for a classroom of thirty kids to turn into a classroom of ten empty desks. Along with the usual sniffles, one of the most common calls our office fields once the school year starts is about a sudden stomach bug — vomiting, diarrhea, and an achy belly that seems to hit overnight. At Pediatric Healthcare Associates, we use our own Symptom Checker tool to help parents work through exactly this kind of question, and “Stomach Ache” and “Vomiting & Diarrhea” are two of its most-used quick-guidance categories this time of year. 

What Viral Gastroenteritis Looks Like 

Often called a “stomach bug” or “stomach flu” (though it has nothing to do with influenza), viral gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by a virus. In school-age kids, it tends to spread quickly through shared bathrooms, cafeteria tables, and playground equipment. Common signs include: 

  • Sudden onset of vomiting, often the first symptom parents notice 
  • Watery diarrhea, sometimes several episodes within a day 
  • Crampy abdominal pain that comes in waves 
  • Low-grade fever 
  • Fatigue, poor appetite, and general fussiness in younger children 

Symptoms typically last 24 to 72 hours, though some viruses can linger for up to a week. 

Home Care While the Bug Runs Its Course 

Most cases of viral gastroenteritis don’t require antibiotics — since it’s viral, the illness needs to run its course. What matters most at home is keeping your child comfortable and hydrated: 

  • Offer small, frequent sips of an oral rehydration solution or water rather than large amounts at once ● Avoid sugary juices and sports drinks, which can worsen diarrhea 
  • Once vomiting has settled, reintroduce bland foods gradually — think crackers, toast, rice, and bananas 
  • Let your child rest, and keep them home from school until symptoms have fully resolved 

When to Use Our Symptom Checker — and When to Call 

Our Symptom Checker walks parents through quick guidance for Fever, Stomach Ache, and Vomiting & Diarrhea, among other common concerns, and can help you decide whether home care is enough or whether it’s time to bring your child in. As a general rule, contact our office or schedule a same-day sick visit if your child:

  • Shows signs of dehydration — dry mouth, no tears when crying, fewer wet diapers, or noticeable lethargy 
  • Has vomiting that won’t stop or diarrhea lasting more than a few days 
  • Develops a high fever alongside stomach symptoms 
  • Has blood in the vomit or stool 
  • Is an infant or very young toddler, who can dehydrate much faster than older children 

Keeping the Bug from Spreading at Home and School 

Viral gastroenteritis spreads easily, so a few precautions go a long way: 

  • Frequent, thorough handwashing for the whole family, especially after bathroom use and before meals 
  • Disinfecting shared surfaces like doorknobs, faucets, and toys 
  • Keeping your child home until at least 24 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhea, per most school and daycare policies 
  • Washing bedding and towels used during illness in hot water 

We’re Here When You Need Us 

Whether the bug is making its way through your child’s classroom at our Altoona or Roaring Spring area schools, our providers are available around the clock for guidance. Try our Symptom Checker first if you’re unsure how urgent the situation is, review our FAQ page for more common questions, and contact us or call (814) 944-7383 any time, day or night, if you’re still concerned.