Gastroenteritis is an infection of the bowel and is sometimes called a ‘tummy bug’, ‘food poisoning‘, ‘the trots’ or ‘traveller’s diarrhoea’. Viral gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by one of any number of viruses.
Also known as the stomach flu, viral gastroenteritis can affect anyone throughout the world. This highly contagious illness spreads through close contact with people who are infected, or through contaminated food or water. It can easily spread in close quarters, such as childcare facilities, schools, nursing homes, and cruise ships.
The most common cause is a viral infection – such as with the norovirus and adenovirus. Food poisoning can also cause it, such as food infected with campylobacter, salmonella and E coli. Meat, poultry, dairy products, eggs, shellfish and parboiled rice are the most commonly affected.
The infection, whether viral or bacterial, irritates the lining of the stomach and gut making the bowel muscles tighten, which in turn triggers vomiting and/or diarrhoea.
Depending on the type of bug involved and its severity, symptoms can occur from an hour to several days after getting infected.
Symptoms usually begin one or two days after infection and include:
- watery diarrhea
- nausea and vomiting
- headache, muscle aches, joint aches
- fever, chills
- sweating, clammy skin
- abdominal cramps and pain
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- becoming dehydrated
- bloody stools
Symptoms can last anywhere from one to 10 days.
Gastroenteritis is easily spread. There are some things you can do to lower your chances of contracting the virus or spreading it to others.
- Wash your hands often, especially after using the bathroom and before food preparation. If necessary, use hand sanitizer until you can access soap and water.
- If someone in your household is sick, do not share kitchen utensils, plates, or towels.
- Do not eat raw or undercooked foods.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
- Take special precautions to avoid contaminated water and food when traveling. Avoid ice cubes and use bottled water whenever possible.
- There are two vaccines for rotavirus. These are generally started when an infant is two months old. Ask your doctor if you should have your infant vaccinated.
