What happens after a telemedicine visit for Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis)

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for stomach flu (gastroenteritis) in children, parents and caregivers typically receive advice on managing symptoms at home. This often includes guidance on keeping the child hydrated, monitoring for warning signs, and managing fever or discomfort. The healthcare provider may recommend simple dietary changes and rest. Follow-up care may be suggested if symptoms worsen or do not improve. Telemedicine allows for quick access to professional advice without leaving home, but it does not replace in-person examinations when a child’s condition is serious. Understanding what to watch for after the visit and how to care for the child can help families feel more confident in managing this common illness.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child shows signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, or very little urine output — seek immediate medical care.
• Child has persistent vomiting or cannot keep fluids down for more than 24 hours — seek urgent evaluation.
• Child experiences high fever (above 39°C or 102.2°F) or blood in vomit or stool — get emergency care promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate stomach flu symptoms in children.
• Providing advice on hydration, diet, and symptom management.
• Monitoring symptom progression through follow-up virtual visits.
• Educating caregivers about warning signs and prevention.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe dehydration requiring intravenous fluids.
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea leading to electrolyte imbalance.
• Signs of serious infection or complications needing physical examination or tests.
• Emergency situations such as seizures, unconsciousness, or severe abdominal pain.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider will likely review your child's symptoms and offer advice on how to care for them at home. This usually includes instructions on keeping your child hydrated, managing fever, and watching for any signs that need urgent care. You may receive recommendations on diet, such as offering bland foods once vomiting decreases, and tips to help your child rest comfortably.

How to Keep Your Child Comfortable

Comfort measures often include giving small, frequent sips of fluids like oral rehydration solutions to prevent dehydration. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks. Use fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if advised by your provider, but never give aspirin to children. Encourage rest and keep your child in a calm environment.

When to Seek Further Medical Care

If your child develops severe symptoms such as persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, decreased urination), high fever, blood in stool, or unusual drowsiness, seek in-person medical care immediately. These signs may indicate a more serious condition requiring urgent attention.

Typical Follow-Up After a Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider may suggest a follow-up telemedicine visit or an in-person appointment if symptoms do not improve within a few days or if new symptoms develop. Keeping a symptom diary can help track your child's progress and provide useful information for follow-up care.

Preventing the Spread of Infection

Gastroenteritis is often contagious. Wash hands frequently with soap and water, clean surfaces regularly, and avoid sharing utensils or towels. Keep your child home from school or daycare until symptoms have resolved to prevent spreading the illness to others.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your child's symptoms ready, including when they started and how severe they are.
• Prepare information about any medications your child is currently taking.
• Ensure you have a working device with camera and microphone for the telemedicine visit.
• Be ready to describe your child's fluid intake and output, including urine and stool frequency.
• Have a thermometer available to provide accurate temperature readings during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on fluid intake and diet.
• Monitor your child closely for any worsening symptoms or new warning signs.
• Use fever reducers as directed, avoiding aspirin in children.
• Maintain good hygiene practices to prevent spread of infection.
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if symptoms do not improve or worsen.

FAQs

Can I treat my child's stomach flu at home after a telemedicine visit?

Yes, most cases of stomach flu in children can be managed at home with proper hydration, rest, and symptom monitoring. Your healthcare provider will guide you on how to care for your child safely.

When should I call for emergency help after the telemedicine visit?

Call for emergency help if your child shows signs of severe dehydration, persistent vomiting, high fever, blood in vomit or stool, unusual drowsiness, or difficulty breathing. These require immediate in-person care.

Are antibiotics needed for stomach flu in children?

Stomach flu is usually caused by viruses, so antibiotics are not typically needed. Your healthcare provider will advise if any specific treatment is necessary based on your child's condition.

How can I prevent my child from getting stomach flu again?

Good hand hygiene, cleaning surfaces regularly, and keeping your child away from others who are sick can help prevent stomach flu. Encouraging these habits can reduce the risk of future infections.

Is it safe to give my child over-the-counter medicines after the telemedicine visit?

Some over-the-counter medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be safe to reduce fever or discomfort, but always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and avoid giving aspirin to children.

Sources

1. Gastroenteritis in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Viral Gastroenteritis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Gastroenteritis - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Gastroenteritis in Children: Diagnosis and Treatment — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This article provides general information about telemedicine care for stomach flu in children and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If your child’s symptoms are severe or worsen, seek immediate medical attention.