Stomach bug question

[monarchsfan16]

Anyone know how long people with stomach bugs are generally contagious? Also how long is the period between contact and you getting sick?
I ask because I babysat today for a little guy (my regular babysitting charge) who had a bug this weekend. He's better (or so I was told) but he definitely wasn't doing so hot while I was there And it's not like my immune system is strong enough right now to fight it off, I've been feeling less than wonderful myself for quite awhile (a cold that won't end).

 

[Christine]

Generally, stomach bugs aren't contagious in the way that the flu or colds are--you're not going to breath it in or catch just by being close to him. You are going to get it by touching his vomit and/or feces. If you don't wash properly, then you will catch it. If he has stopped with the symptoms you are probably okay--if he's just having leftover tiredness from the bug, that's okay.

 

[monarchsfan16]

Thanks. As far as I know I didn't come in contact with anything, but he's 2. I have no idea what's on his hands, or him for that matter whenever I get there. But there was definitely more than just leftover tiredness. His stomach was making those noises that aren't good, just some other things.