What should you know about a stomach bug?

Gastroenteritis irritates the stomach and intestines. Nausea, loose stools, abdominal pain, fever, reduced appetite, and vomiting may appear together or develop over time. Viruses are common causes, and some infections spread easily through contaminated hands, food, water, or shared surfaces.

The main concern is fluid and salt loss. Dehydration may cause a dry mouth, dark urine, unusual tiredness, dizziness, or reduced urination. Rotavirus Infection is one possible cause, especially in young children.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. If vomiting settles, add simple foods in small amounts and return gradually to your usual diet. Rest, wash hands carefully, and avoid preparing food for others while unwell. Do not give children anti-diarrhoea or anti-vomiting medicines unless a clinician recommends them.

Monitor urine, alertness, and the ability to drink. A healthcare professional can advise about fluids, testing, or treatment when symptoms are severe or prolonged.

Get prompt help for inability to keep fluids down, blood in vomit or stool, severe or persistent abdominal pain, marked sleepiness, confusion, or signs of dehydration. Infants, older adults, pregnant people, and those with significant medical conditions can become unwell more quickly and should seek advice sooner.

Which fluids are suitable for me? How can I recognise dehydration? When can I return to work, school, or childcare? Do my medicines need adjustment while I am vomiting or having diarrhoea?