Is 24-Hour Flu Contagious?

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, we frequently see patients experiencing symptoms of the “24-hour flu,” also known as viral gastroenteritis or a stomach bug. This illness is highly contagious and can spread quickly among families, coworkers, and in community settings throughout Oklahoma.

Viruses like norovirus and rotavirus—common causes of viral gastroenteritis—are easily transmitted through direct contact, contaminated food or water, or by touching infected surfaces and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. Because these viruses are present in the stool and sometimes vomit of infected individuals, even microscopic amounts can lead to new infections. Individuals can be contagious even before symptoms appear and for several days after symptoms resolve, making prevention a challenge. Outbreaks are especially common in places where people are in close contact, such as schools, daycares, nursing homes, and workplaces here in Oklahoma.

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, our experienced medical team is here to help you and your family if you come down with the “24-hour flu.” While most cases resolve on their own, we can provide guidance on symptom management, hydration, and when to seek further care—especially for young children, older adults, or those with underlying health conditions.

To help prevent the spread of viral gastroenteritis, remember to:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the restroom and before eating or preparing food.
• Disinfect surfaces with approved cleaners.
• Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.

If you or a loved one develops sudden vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or fever, visit any Immediate Care of Oklahoma location for prompt evaluation and care. Our walk-in clinics are conveniently located and open extended hours to serve you when you need us most.

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, we often see patients experiencing what is commonly called the “24-hour flu.” This illness is usually caused by viral infections such as norovirus or, less frequently, rotavirus—and despite the nickname, it is not related to influenza. If you have recently been exposed to someone who is sick, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and mild fever can appear within 12 to 48 hours. Most people recover within 24 to 72 hours, but the sudden onset of these symptoms can be very uncomfortable.

If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, our Immediate Care of Oklahoma clinics are here to help. Our healthcare providers can help you manage dehydration, monitor for complications, and offer guidance on when further treatment may be necessary. Walk-ins are always welcome, so you can get the care you need when you need it most.

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, we know our patients are eager to stay healthy—especially during cold and flu season. Many people wonder if wearing a mask can protect them from the “24-hour flu,” a common term for a sudden illness marked by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes fever. Let’s clear up some confusion:

Despite the name, the “24-hour flu” isn’t caused by the influenza virus. It’s usually due to viruses like norovirus or rotavirus, which target the stomach and intestines rather than the respiratory system. These viruses are highly contagious, but they’re mostly spread through contact with contaminated hands, surfaces, food, or water—not through the air.

Masks are effective at blocking respiratory droplets, which is why they help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and the seasonal flu. These illnesses are transmitted when someone coughs, sneezes, or talks. However, the viruses that cause the “stomach flu” are not airborne. Instead, they spread when you touch your mouth after contacting contaminated surfaces or objects, or through close contact with someone who is sick, especially after they vomit or have diarrhea. Because of this, wearing a mask offers very limited protection against the viruses that cause the “24-hour flu.”

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, we recommend the following tips to reduce your risk:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom or before eating.
• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, counters, and phones.
• Avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils with anyone who is sick.
• Stay home if you are experiencing symptoms to prevent spreading the illness to others.

If you or a family member is experiencing sudden stomach symptoms, our Immediate Care of Oklahoma clinics are here to help. Walk in or schedule a visit for prompt evaluation and care.

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, Dr. Kevin Penwell, D.O., and our medical team are committed to helping you and your family stay healthy, especially during peak times of viral illnesses like the so-called “24-hour flu” (often caused by viruses such as norovirus).

To help prevent the spread of these highly contagious stomach viruses, we recommend a combination of effective hygiene practices and precautionary measures:

• Frequent Handwashing: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, and before eating or preparing food. Hand sanitizers are not always effective against all stomach viruses, so handwashing is key.

• Disinfect Surfaces: Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces at home, such as doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and bathroom fixtures, with a household disinfectant proven to kill viruses.

• Stay Home When Ill: If you or a family member are experiencing symptoms, stay home and rest. Avoid preparing food for others until at least 48 hours after symptoms resolve, as you may still be contagious.

• Separate Personal Items: Use separate towels, bedding, and utensils for anyone who is sick, and handle soiled laundry with care—washing it promptly and thoroughly.

• Limit Close Contact: Avoid sharing drinks, food, or close physical contact with anyone showing symptoms of the stomach flu.

By following these guidelines, you can greatly reduce the risk of spreading illness within your household.

If someone in your family develops severe symptoms, is at higher risk of complications, or if you have any concerns about your health, the team at Immediate Care of Oklahoma is here to help. We offer convenient walk-in care at all of our locations, and you can always reach out to us for expert advice and treatment options. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Oklahoma City, OK. We serve patients from West Moore OK, Norman (HealthPlex) OK, Norman (24th) OK, Edmond OK, Yukon OK, I-240 & Sooner RD OK, Tecumseh OK, and Bethany OK.