Gastroenteritis is a short-term illness due to inflammation of the digestive system. Symptoms can include abdominal cramps, diarrhoea and vomiting. Although there are a number of possible causes of gastro, including bacteria and their toxins, parasites, some chemicals and medications, the cause is often viral.
‘Stomach bug’ and ‘stomach flu’ are also names for viral gastroenteritis, and it can be contagious. Infection is caused by contact with other infected people through, for example, touching contaminated hands, faeces or vomit, or by drinking contaminated water or food. It usually takes 10–72 hours following exposure before you become ill with viral gastroenteritis, depending on the type of virus. Infected people can continue to infect others for many days after their symptoms have ended, and some people can carry viruses which cause viral gastro without experiencing symptoms themselves.
Follow the basic hygiene rules:
More important than eating is rehydrating with water when you have diarrhoea associated with gastro. Drinking water is top priority – to replace fluids, or prevent dehydration, a specially formulated oral rehydration solution is recommended.
As you feel better you can start to eat and return to your normal diet and routine when ready.
If you are concerned that your symptoms are severe and are not improving, then seek medical attention.
