Adenovirus stomach bug

The central concern is fluid loss, especially in babies, young children, older adults and people who cannot drink enough. Antibiotics do not treat adenovirus; care usually focuses on hydration and comfort while the immune system clears the infection.

Inflammation in the digestive tract interferes with normal fluid absorption and can trigger diarrhoea and vomiting. Adenovirus is only one possible cause of these symptoms, and examination or testing may be needed when illness is severe, prolonged or unusual.

The virus can spread through traces of stool or vomit on hands, bathroom fixtures, changing areas, food-preparation surfaces and shared objects. Careful handwashing with soap and water is particularly useful after using the toilet, changing a nappy and before handling food.

Offer frequent small sips rather than a large drink at once if nausea is present. An oral rehydration solution provides water and salts in a balance designed for fluid losses; a pharmacist or clinician can advise on an appropriate product and preparation. Continue breastfeeding, and resume familiar foods as appetite returns without forcing meals.

Keep the person away from food preparation for others while unwell, clean soiled surfaces, wash contaminated clothing separately, and avoid sharing utensils or towels. Check with a clinician before giving anti-diarrhoeal or anti-vomiting medicines to a child.

Seek urgent care if there is very little urine, a dry mouth, no tears, sunken eyes, unusual sleepiness, confusion, dizziness, cold or mottled skin, or an inability to keep fluids down. Blood in stool or vomit, green vomit, severe or localised abdominal pain, a stiff neck, breathing difficulty or a seizure also requires urgent assessment.

Contact a clinician early for a baby, a frail older person, someone with reduced immunity, or anyone whose symptoms are worsening. Emergency care is appropriate if the person is difficult to wake or collapses.

Tell the clinician when vomiting and diarrhoea began, whether there is blood or bile, how often urine is passed, what fluids stay down, and whether close contacts are ill. Ask which rehydration approach fits the person's age and health, and which warning signs mean returning immediately.