What is Gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis is an infection in the stomach and intestines that causes diarrhea and sometimes vomiting.
Gastroenteritis is an infection in the stomach and intestines that causes diarrhea and sometimes vomiting.
It is common in babies and children. It is caused by a virus or bacteria in the intestinal tract (bowels). Bacteria or viruses get to the intestinal tract by putting hands, toys or other objects near or into the mouth.
It is more serious in babies and young children than it is in adults because the risk of dehydration from diarrhea and vomiting is usually greater in younger children.
Warning: Do not give your child medicine to stop the diarrhea. Talk with your doctor before giving your child any medicines.
It is not possible to keep a child from ever being exposed to the germs that cause gastroenteritis. Proper hand washing by the whole family is the best way to prevent the spread of disease.
Make sure each person in the family washes their hands with soap and water:
Your doctor may ask to see your child or have your child seen in the emergency department. Your child will be checked and watched for signs of dehydration.
You may be asked to help care for your child by giving them Pedialyte. This replaces the fluid lost from diarrhea and vomiting and allows you to be active in your child's care. This may keep your child from needing an IV.
If the diarrhea and vomiting continue and your child refuses fluids by mouth, they may need an IV. An IV will let special fluids go into your child through a vein.
Last Updated 04/2024
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