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• Gastroenteritis, commonly known as ‘gastro’, is a frequently occurring and highly transmissible illness impacting the stomach and intestines, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea.
• Infants younger than 6 months should always consult a doctor if gastro is suspected.
• Treatment includes maintaining hydration and preventing dehydration by consuming fluids—medications may not be required.
• To reduce the transmission of gastro, practice proper hand hygiene after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before handling food.
• Avoid attending school or work for 48 hours after the last episode of diarrhea or vomiting.

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Gastroenteritis, or ‘gastro’, is often caused by viral or bacterial infections, as well as parasites or toxins. It can also be spread through contaminated food or water, poor hygiene practices, or close contact with an infected individual.

Preventive measures include practicing good hygiene, such as regularly washing hands and avoiding close contact with those who are ill. It is also important to stay hydrated and rest if you do contract gastroenteritis.

If symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek medical attention. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required to prevent dehydration and other complications. Remember to always consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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Possible causes of gastro:

• Viruses such as rotavirus and norovirus
• Bacteria like salmonella and campylobacter
• Toxins released by bacteria such as clostridium difficile
• Parasites including giardia and cryptosporidium

Viral gastro is highly contagious and spreads through contact with infected vomit or feces.

Bacterial and parasitic gastro may result from consuming contaminated food or water, often known as ‘food poisoning’. Symptoms usually appear 6 to 12 hours after consuming spoiled food.

Gastro caused by clostridium difficile is usually associated with antibiotic usage, disrupting the balance of gut bacteria and leading to symptoms.

Gastroenteritis results in inflammation of the stomach and intestines.

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A list of common childhood illnesses, like gastroenteritis, and their recommended exclusion periods can be found below.

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Symptoms of gastro may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea, cramping, body aches, weakness, and fatigue

Vomiting typically lasts 1 to 2 days, while diarrhea can persist for 1 to 3 days, occasionally lasting up to 10 days.

In severe cases, individuals may struggle to retain fluids, produce reduced urine, and experience dizziness when standing up.

ASSESS YOUR SYMPTOMS with the Symptom Checker prior to seeking medical help.

If symptoms worsen or persist, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and getting adequate rest to help your body recover. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and speed up the recovery process. Take care of your health and seek medical attention if needed.

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If you are experiencing:

• Increasing abdominal pain
• Frequent vomiting or diarrhea
• Blood or mucus in stools
• A fever
• Signs of dehydration
• Or other troubling symptoms

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If your infant:

• Is under 6 months of age
• Has a fever over 38.5℃ if under 3 years old
• Weighs less than 8kg
• Or displays severe symptoms

Seek medical assistance for significant signs of dehydration or if you have concerns.

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Remember to always follow the advice of healthcare professionals and seek immediate medical attention if you or your child experience any concerning symptoms. It is important to prioritize your health and well-being.

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A healthcare professional can diagnose gastro by conducting an examination and discussing symptoms. Further tests may be recommended if symptoms persist.

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If the cause is bacterial or parasitic, antibiotics may be prescribed for treating gastro. Viral gastro does not necessitate antibiotic treatment. Learn more about bacterial versus viral infections.

Most cases of gastro resolve without medical intervention. Severe dehydration may require the administration of IV fluids.

To manage symptoms:

• Maintain hydration by drinking clear fluids in small, frequent sips. Avoid sugary beverages.
• Consider consuming bland foods like crackers, rice, clear soup, banana, or dry toast if hungry.
• Get adequate rest.
• Continue breastfeeding.
• Consult a healthcare provider before giving anti-nausea or anti-diarrhea medications, especially for children.

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Dehydration is a common and serious complication in children with gastro. Prompt medical attention is vital for young infants, particularly if dehydration is suspected.

Continue breastfeeding and provide rehydration fluids if necessary for hydration.

Consult healthcare professionals before administering medications to infants.

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Older individuals are at a higher risk of complications related to gastro and severe dehydration. IV fluids may be required for fluid replacement.

Outbreaks frequently occur in aged-care facilities, and symptoms resembling gastro may indicate other conditions or side effects of medications.

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To prevent the transmission of gastro:

• Avoid attending work in healthcare, residential or aged care, or food industries until 48 hours after symptoms have resolved.
• Maintain thorough hand hygiene after handling contaminated items.
• Wash contaminated clothing and bedding with hot water and detergent.
• Use personal items exclusively and avoid preparing food for others while unwell.
• If food poisoning is suspected, inform the local health department.

To reduce the risk of contracting gastro:

• Adhere to health guidelines for preventing gastro transmission.
• Exercise caution when dealing with animal waste and food preparation.
• Keep raw and cooked foods separate and ensure thorough cooking of food.

When traveling to areas with poor hygiene, opt for bottled water, avoid adding ice to drinks, peel fruits before consuming, and refrain from eating raw foods.

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Rotavirus is a virus causing severe gastroenteritis in infants and young children, so they should receive vaccinations at 2 and 4 months of age, with a possible third dose at 6 months depending on the vaccine brand.

The vaccine is effective in preventing rotavirus infection in approximately 70% of vaccinated children. Learn more about childhood immunization and vaccinations.

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• Access Sydney Children’s Hospital factsheets on gastroenteritis in children in multiple languages.
• Refer to the GESA website for additional information on gastro in children.
• Discover tips on promoting hydration by drinking water for your well-being.

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• The Victorian Department of Health offers fact sheets on gastroenteritis in various languages.

Sources:

Various health departments provide information on gastroenteritis, including Queensland Health, Safer Care Victoria, NSW Health, South Australia Government, Healthy WA, Sydney Children Hospitals Network, GESA, NT Government, and others.

Last reviewed: December 2023

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• Bowel infections
• Norovirus infection
• Rotavirus infection

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Reliable information partners offer more insights on this subject.

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Gastroenteritis (gastro) is an infection affecting the digestive system of infants. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments.

For more information, visit the Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

• slight increase in body temperature

Loss of appetite, digestive issues, muscle pain, and headaches may also be present in some individuals.

Symptoms typically show up within 24 hours of infection and usually resolve within a week, although they can persist for a longer duration in certain cases.

In addition to the tips mentioned above, it is important to avoid alcohol and caffeine while experiencing symptoms of gastroenteritis, as these can exacerbate dehydration. It is also recommended to avoid dairy products, fatty or spicy foods, and foods high in fiber until symptoms improve.

If symptoms persist for more than a few days, if there is blood in the stool, or if you have a high fever, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of a more serious infection or condition that may require treatment.

Remember to continue practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before handling food. This can help prevent the spread of gastroenteritis to others.

When to get medical advice

Typically, seeking medical attention for gastroenteritis is not necessary, as the condition often resolves on its own.

<р>When in doubt or need of advice, contact 111 or your GP instead of visiting in person.

Phone 111 or your GP practice if:

• severe dehydration symptoms
• presence of blood in diarrhea
• continuous vomiting and inability to retain fluids
• fever exceeding 38C (100.4F)
• no improvement in symptoms after a few days
• recent travel to an area with poor sanitation
• existing health conditions involving diarrhea and vomiting

Your GP may suggest analyzing a stool sample or prescribing antibiotics for bacterial infections.

It is important to monitor your child closely and seek medical attention if you notice any of the following warning signs:

• Blood in the stool
• High fever
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, decreased urine output)
• Severe abdominal pain
• Prolonged vomiting or diarrhea

Remember to follow your healthcare provider’s advice and seek medical help if you have any concerns about your child’s condition.

Continue to offer small, frequent sips of fluids to prevent dehydration, and gradually reintroduce solid foods as tolerated. Keep your child comfortable and provide a calm environment for recovery.

Getting medical advice for your child

In most cases, child gastroenteritis improves without the need for medical intervention, reducing the likelihood of spreading by avoiding a GP visit.

Phone 111 or your GP practice if:

Seek medical advice if your child:

• shows signs of dehydration
• has blood in stool or vomit
• constantly vomits and cannot retain fluids
• experiences prolonged diarrhea or vomiting
• displays symptoms of a more severe illness
• has underlying conditions involving diarrhea and vomiting

Healthcare professionals may recommend further testing and antibiotic treatment if necessary.

How gastroenteritis is spread

Gastroenteritis is highly contagious and can easily spread through person-to-person contact, contaminated surfaces, and food.

Preventive measures include staying at home, frequent handwashing, surface disinfection, and careful handling of food.

Other ways gastroenteritis can spread include:

• Drinking contaminated water
• Sharing utensils or food with someone who is infected
• Not properly washing fruits and vegetables before consumption
• Exposure to fecal matter (such as changing diapers without proper hand hygiene)

It is important to practice good hygiene and sanitation habits to prevent the spread of gastroenteritis and protect yourself and others from getting sick.

Preventing gastroenteritis

• Avoid going to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after recovery
• Regularly wash hands with soap and water
• Disinfect surfaces and objects
• Wash contaminated items separately
• Follow good food hygiene practices
• Avoid sharing personal items

When traveling to areas with poor sanitation, take extra precautions to prevent stomach infections. Vaccines may be available for young children to lower the risk of gastroenteritis.