Differential Diagnosis for Stomach Bug with 24-36h Incubation Period

• Single most likely diagnosis:
  • Norovirus: This is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis, characterized by a short incubation period of 24-48 hours, and symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
• Other Likely diagnoses:
  • Food poisoning (bacterial): Bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and Campylobacter can cause food poisoning with an incubation period that fits within the 24-36 hour timeframe, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
  • Rotavirus: Although more common in children, rotavirus can also affect adults, especially in outbreaks, with an incubation period of about 24-48 hours.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
  • Botulism: With an incubation period of 12-72 hours, botulism is a rare but potentially deadly illness that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms initially, followed by neurological symptoms like muscle weakness and paralysis.
  • Vibrio infections: Certain Vibrio species, such as Vibrio vulnificus, can cause severe gastrointestinal illness with a short incubation period, and are particularly dangerous for individuals with certain health conditions.
• Rare diagnoses:
  • Adenovirus: While adenovirus can cause gastroenteritis, it is less common than norovirus and rotavirus, and typically has a longer incubation period.
  • Astrovirus: This virus is another cause of viral gastroenteritis, especially in children and immunocompromised individuals, but is less common than other viral causes.