This statement is incorrect. Despite popular belief, there is no such disease as the “gastrointestinal flu.” Influenza is a respiratory pathogen with no impact on the gastrointestinal system. Although the entire body may suffer the effects of influenza infection, neither vomiting nor diarrhea is associated with this virus. Unfortunately, there are gastrointestinal viruses that circulate during the same winter months as influenza. Neither the first generation of anti-influenza drugs nor the newer neuraminidase inhibitors provide any relief against non-influenza viruses.
