Can gastroenteritis be prevented?

Gastroenteritis, sometimes called a stomach bug, can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Germs may pass through contaminated hands, food, water, surfaces, or close contact with someone who is ill. Vomiting and diarrhoea can spread germs around bathrooms and shared spaces. Prevention lowers exposure but cannot remove every risk, particularly during outbreaks or travel.

Wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet, changing nappies, and before preparing or eating food. Clean frequently touched bathroom surfaces after illness, and wash soiled laundry separately when possible. Cook food thoroughly, keep raw and ready-to-eat foods apart, and refrigerate perishable food promptly. Drink safe water. Do not prepare food for others while you have vomiting or diarrhoea, and remain away from work, school, or group settings until symptoms have settled and local advice allows return. Vaccination helps prevent rotavirus infection in eligible infants; ask a clinician about the routine schedule.

Seek medical advice if diarrhoea or vomiting is severe, persists, or prevents drinking. Get urgent help for confusion, fainting, very little urine, blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, or marked weakness. Babies, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with a long-term illness can become unwell more quickly and may need earlier assessment.

Ask which hygiene measures matter most at home, when it is safe to return to work or school, whether travel or food exposure changes your risk, and whether a child should receive rotavirus vaccination.