Claudann Jones Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Claudann Jones Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

With a stomach bug or rash, should you stay home from work or school? Dr. Alison Pittman, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Nursing, gives some basic guidelines for us to follow.

How long am I contagious after a stomach bug?

“Any time you have had diarrhea — regardless how often — or if you vomited twice in the past 24 hours, then you need to stay home,” Pittman said. “If you vomit two or more times in one day, then that likely means you did not throw up because of something you ate or because you got too hot outside. The stomach flu or a stomach bug is often called viral gastroenteritis, and it is highly contagious. It spreads through contact with an infected person’s stool or vomit.

“Some viruses, such as norovirus, can live on surfaces for more than 24 hours, and it spreads very quickly, especially with children,” Pittman said. “If symptoms last more than 24 hours or if you or your children start to feel dehydrated, then call your primary care provider.”

Is my rash contagious?

“If you have a rash, you should always seek a health care provider’s recommendation. Many rashes can be symptoms of contagious illness like meningitis or measles,” Pittman said. “Do not return to work or send your children with rashes to school until your provider gives you the go ahead.”

Rashes can be a symptom for many things, like allergic reactions; chicken pox; impetigo; hands, foot and mouth; and shingles. Pittman notes if you have a rash in conjunction with a fever, that combination is often a sign of a more serious illness.