Viral Gastroenteritis in Children

Viral gastroenteritis is often called “stomach flu.” But it is not really related to the flu or influenza. It is irritation of the stomach and intestines due to infection with a virus. Most children with viral gastroenteritis get better in a few days without a doctor’s treatment. Because a child with gastroenteritis may have trouble keeping fluids down, he or she is at risk for dehydration and should be watched closely.

Symptoms of Gastroenteritis

The best way to prevent gastroenteritis is to wash hands regularly using warm water and plenty of soap.

Symptoms of gastroenteritis include diarrhea (loose, watery stools) sometimes with nausea and vomiting. The child may have cramps or pain in the stomach area. A fever or headache may also be present. Symptoms usually last for about 2 days, but may take as long as 10 days to go away.

How Is Viral Gastroenteritis Transmitted?

Viral gastroenteritis is highly contagious. The viruses that cause the infection are often passed from person to person by unwashed hands. Children can get the viruses from food, eating utensils, or toys. People who have had the infection can be contagious even after they feel better. And some people are infected but never have symptoms. Because of this, outbreaks of gastroenteritis are common in childcare and other group settings.

Treatment

Most cases of viral gastroenteritis get better without treatment. (Antibiotics are NOT helpful against viral infections.) The goal of treatment is to make the child comfortable and to prevent dehydration. These tips can help:

• Be sure the child gets plenty of rest.

• To prevent dehydration:

  • Give your child plenty of liquids such as water or broth. You can also give your child an oral rehydyration solution such as Pedialyte, which you can buy at the grocery store or drugstore. Have your child take small sips of fluid at first to avoid nausea.

  • Do not give your child beverages that have a lot of sugar in them because they can worsen diarrhea. Also do not give sport drinks, such as Gatorade, which don’t have the right mix of water, sugar, and minerals, and can make the symptoms worse.

• When your child is able to eat again:

  • Feed him his regular foods.

  • Ask your child’s doctor whether there are any foods that should be avoided while your child is recovering from gastroenteritis.

Preventing Gastroenteritis

These steps may help lessen the chances that you or your child will get or pass on gastroenteritis:

• Wash your hands with warm water and soap often, especially after going to the bathroom, diapering your child, and before preparing, serving, or eating food.

• Have your child wash his or her hands frequently.

• Keep food preparation areas clean.

• Wash soiled clothing promptly.

• Use diapers with waterproof outer covers or use plastic pants.

• Prevent contact between the child and those who are sick.

• Keep your sick child home from childcare.