A stomach bug, or viral gastroenteritis, typically lasts about 1 to 3 days, but symptoms can occasionally persist up to 10 to 14 days in some cases. Most people experience symptoms such as watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and sometimes low-grade fever during this period
. The acute phase of illness, when symptoms are most intense, usually lasts 24 to 72 hours, with gradual improvement thereafter
. In severe cases or for people with weakened immune systems, symptoms may last longer, sometimes up to two weeks or more
. After recovery, individuals can remain contagious for a variable period, often 48 to 72 hours, but sometimes up to two weeks or longer, especially with norovirus infections
. In summary:
- Typical duration: 1 to 3 days
- Possible extended duration: up to 10–14 days in some cases
- Contagious period: during symptoms and up to 2 weeks after recovery
Hydration and rest are key to recovery, as there is no specific antiviral treatment for viral gastroenteritis
