gastroenteritis (gastro)
also known as: stomach bug, stomach flu, vomiting bug, rotavirus, norovirus
gastro is an infection of the gut caused by viruses (most commonly rotavirus and norovirus), bacteria, or parasites. it causes vomiting and diarrhoea and can lead to dehydration, especially in young children. most cases resolve within a few days but dehydration is the main danger.
contagious
yes, highly contagious
duration
vomiting usually 1-2 days, diarrhoea can last 5-7 days
common age
all ages — most common in children under 5
symptoms
- •vomiting (often starts first)
- •watery diarrhoea
- •stomach cramps and pain
- •mild fever
- •loss of appetite
- •irritability and tiredness
- •signs of dehydration: dry mouth, no tears, fewer wet nappies, sunken eyes
when to see a doctor
see your GP or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) if:
- •your child is under 6 months old
- •signs of dehydration: no wet nappies for 6+ hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying, sunken eyes or fontanelle
- •blood or mucus in diarrhoea
- •vomiting for more than 24 hours
- •high fever (above 38.5degC in babies, 39degC in older children)
- •severe stomach pain
- •your child is very drowsy or hard to wake
- •your child is not keeping any fluids down
when to call 000
call 000 immediately if:
- •your child is unresponsive or extremely drowsy
- •your child is floppy or limp
- •blood in vomit (not just red food colouring)
- •severe dehydration — sunken eyes, no urine for 8+ hours, not responding to you
home treatment
- •keep up fluids — small, frequent sips (breast milk, formula, or water)
- •use oral rehydration solution (e.g. Hydralyte, Gastrolyte) for children showing signs of dehydration
- •return to normal diet as soon as they are ready — do not starve a gastro bug
- •avoid fruit juice, soft drinks, and sports drinks
- •give paracetamol for fever — avoid ibuprofen if dehydrated
- •wash hands thoroughly after nappy changes and before food
- •do NOT give anti-diarrhoea medicines to children
prevention
- •handwashing is the single most effective prevention
- •rotavirus vaccine is available on the National Immunisation Program (given at 6 weeks, 4 months, and 6 months)
- •clean surfaces and toys regularly, especially during outbreaks
- •do not share towels, cups, or cutlery during illness
- •keep your child home for 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea
this guide is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. if you are concerned about your child, see your GP, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84), or in an emergency call 000. mini mode is not affiliated with any government department or health service.