Stomach bugs, commonly caused by viral gastroenteritis, typically last from 1 to 3 days, but symptoms can persist up to 10 to 14 days in some cases. Most people recover within a few days, but severe cases or those involving weaker immune systems may last up to two weeks

. The contagious period usually begins before symptoms appear and continues through the illness, with peak contagiousness during the first 24 to 48 hours of symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Importantly, people can remain contagious for several days after recovery—often 48 to 72 hours, and in some cases up to two weeks or more—because the virus can still be present in stool

. In summary:

• Typical duration of symptoms: 1 to 3 days, sometimes up to 10-14 days
• Contagious period: From before symptoms start, throughout illness, and up to 2 weeks after recovery
• Longer duration: Possible in immunocompromised individuals or severe cases

Good hygiene, especially thorough handwashing and disinfecting contaminated surfaces, is crucial to prevent spreading the stomach bug