Oprah Winfrey In Hospital With Bad Bout Of Stomach Virus Infection

Viral gastroenteritis or 'stomach flu' develops when a person comes into contact with an infected person, or if they consume contaminated food or water. It is an intestinal infection.

Oprah Winfrey is not keeping well. The talk show host, television producer, actor and author is reportedly suffering from stomach flu. News reports have cited Winfrey's longtime friend Gayle King as revealing that she has been hospitalised with a case of stomach virus. According to an Independent report, the 70-year-old media mogul was noticeably absent from a scheduled appearance on CBS Mornings, on June 11. CBS anchor King purportedly stated during a segment that Winfrey was 'unable to appear' on the program due to a 'serious' stomach bug. "She had some kind of stomach thing, stomach flu, stuff was coming out of both ends," King was quoted as saying. She added: "I won't get too graphic. Needless to say, she ended up in the hospital, dehydrated, and had to get an IV. It was a very serious thing."

King also reportedly noted that Winfrey was going to 'rally' from the stomach virus; she, however, needs some time to rest and recuperate. "She will be okay. I hope she is not mad at me for sharing that detail. But, I wanted to make it clear, though, that it mattered to her and that it really bothered her that she couldn't be here for you today," King was quoted as saying.

A spokesperson for Winfrey said in a statement to People that she is 'resting and feeling better every day'. "Ms Winfrey is recovering following a stomach virus and received an IV due to dehydrationat the recommendation of her doctor."

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What Is A Stomach Flu?

According to the Mayo Clinic, viral gastroenteritis or 'stomach flu' develops when a person comes into contact with an infected person, or if they consume contaminated food or water. Viral gastroenteritis is said to be an intestinal infection; its signs and symptoms include watery diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. The best way to prevent it from happening would be to avoid food and water that may be contaminated. Make sure that you wash your hands thoroughly before and after eating food. Stay hydrated.

When To See A Doctor?

Rush to a doctor if the following things happen:

• You are unable to keep liquids down for 24 hours.
• You have been vomiting or having diarrhea for more than two days.
• There is blood in your vomit.
• You are dehydrated and are showing classic signs like dry mouth, excessive thirst, deep yellow urine, little or no urine, severe weakness and lightheadedness.
• You notice blood in bowel movements and have severe stomach pain.
• You have a high fever.