Local physicians are seeing a lot of people with the stomach virus who think it's the flu.

Dr. Sarah Elneser, a family practice physician at Utica Park Clinic,  says, "Usually the flu is accompanied by a little bit higher fever."

There’s another big difference between the two.

Dr. Elneser tells KRMG, "Usually with the stomach virus you will tend to have more vomiting."

You may also have more diarrhea.

She says,  "If you think you have the stomach virus, the first thing is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate."

If you do think you have the flu, the sooner you get to your doctor, the better.

Dr. Elneser says, “Usually after 24 to 48 hours the virus is in full swing and the medication just doesn't work as well."

Symptoms with the flu include, body aches, fever, cough, sore throat and headache.