Gastroenteritis refers to inflammation of the stomach and small intestine, most often caused by infections. Symptoms and severity vary by the responsible microbe and the person’s age and health. Below are practical, general-purpose explanations on causes, everyday care, prevention and when to contact health services.
Gastroenteritis can result from viruses (norovirus, rotavirus), bacteria (Salmonella, Campylobacter, certain E. coli) or parasites. Transmission is frequently person-to-person, via contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then the mouth. Close contact in households, care settings or crowded places raises the risk.
Common signs include diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and mild fever. Most viral cases resolve within a few days, but severity depends on the germ and the person’s age or immune status. Infants, young children, older adults and those with chronic illnesses are at higher risk of complications such as dehydration.
The main aim is to prevent dehydration: take regular sips of water or oral rehydration solutions that replace fluids and salts. Eat simple, easy-to-digest foods when tolerated and rest. Avoid giving medications or supplements without checking with a healthcare professional. If someone cannot keep fluids down, shows signs of dehydration, or rapidly worsens, seek medical assessment.
Handwashing with soap, safe drinking water, thorough cooking of foods and clean food-handling reduce spread. Clean commonly touched surfaces and avoid close contact with symptomatic people. Some causes (for example rotavirus in infants) can be partly prevented by vaccination; ask local health services about recommended vaccines and community advice.
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