The stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, is a common viral illness that causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping. Gastroenteritis is caused by a virus or bacteria in the intestinal tract. Gastroenteritis generally resolves on its own, but can be more serious in infants and toddlers because diarrhea and/or vomiting can cause dehydration.

Many different viruses or bacteria can cause viral gastroenteritis, but the most common culprits are:

Norovirus: the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis. Symptoms typically begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus and last from one to three days.
Rotavirus: symptoms usually begin about 2 days after exposure to the virus and last from three to eight days. Vaccines can prevent rotavirus infection.
Adenovirus: symptoms typically begin three to ten days after exposure and last 1 to 2 weeks.
Astrovirus: symptoms typically begin four to five days after you come into contact with the virus and last from 24 hours to four days.

Many of these viruses spread easily. The virus or bacteria gains access to the intestinal tract when contaminated hands, toys, or other items are put into or near your child’s mouth. Norovirus is particularly contagious and can live for months on surfaces such as countertops and changing tables. When an infected person vomits, the virus may become airborne and contaminate surfaces or other people.

Most common symptoms of Gastroenteritis

vomiting
diarrhea
many children also have a fever

When kids have diarrhea or vomiting, they lose lots of fluid in their poop or vomit. This can lead to dehydration (not having enough water in the body). If that happens, the body can have trouble working as it should.

Gastroenteritis Diagnosis

Generally, no tests are needed to diagnose gastroenteritis; it is usually diagnosed based on reported symptoms. Dr. Leung may order a stool test, urine test, or blood test to check for dehydration if your baby is very sick or has blood or mucus in their stool.

Gastroenteritis Treatment

Most children with gastroenteritis will not need any specific treatment or medication. Dr. Leung recommends keeping your baby hydrated and offering them plenty of liquids. Breastfeed or bottle-feed formula frequently for short periods of time.

For extended diarrhea, offerings of an electrolyte solution (Pedialyte or similar product) can be given in addition to normal feedings to prevent dehydration. These products can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. Water should not be given in large amounts, as it does not contain the additional nutrients that will help prevent dehydration.

If your child suffers from continued nausea and vomiting, decreasing the amount of fluids to an ounce or a half-ounce every half hour to hour may help keep them hydrated. Babies can continue to breastfeed or take formula as long as they are not throwing up repeatedly. Don’t give medicines for diarrhea or vomiting unless instructed by Dr. Leung.

Your child will need rest to recover from the virus. If Dr. Leung has advised a pain medication, you can give your baby acetaminophen for fever or pain. However, be sure not to give ibuprofen to babies under 6 months old. Also, do not give aspirin to your baby, as it has been linked to a rare but serious illness called Reye Syndrome. Follow the package directions on the amount of medicine to be given and the timing for doses.

Be sure to keep your baby away from others or home from daycare until 24 hours has passed without vomiting or the cessation of fever and/or diarrhea.

Call our office if your baby:

can’t or won’t feed or drink for several hours
does not urinate for four to six hours
cries with few or no tears
has a dry mouth or cracked lips
seems dizzy or lightheaded
seems very sleepy or less alert
has a high fever
has blood in their stool or vomit
is vomiting for more than 24 hours
still has diarrhea after several days

How to avoid gastroenteritis

Tips to avoid gastroenteritis:

Make it a habit for all family members to wash their hands well and often. Washing for a minimum of 20 seconds with soap and water is ideal, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing or eating food.
Clean counters, tabletops, doorknobs, handles, and other surfaces that are frequently touched with an antibacterial cleaner.
Follow food safety guidelines to prevent bacteria and viruses from infecting food and beverages.
Make sure your baby receives the recommended immunizations on time. Rotavirus is often a cause of stomach flu in children, but the rotavirus vaccine can help prevent this.

Infant Gastroenteritis