Gastroenteritis

WHAT IS GASTROENTERITIS?
Bacterial gastroenteritis is spread through poor
Gastroenteritis (often called ‘gastro’) is a common
hygiene (especially not washing your hands after
infection of the bowel that can cause diarrhoea
(runny faeces or poo), vomiting, or both. going to the toilet or after cleaning vomit or dirty
nappies), spoiled food, polluted water supplies and
Gastroenteritis can cause dehydration (loss of handling pets and animals.
water), which sometimes results in a loss of sugar
and salts that the body needs to work normally. WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS?
Gastroenteritis often settles without treatment. It is Gastroenteritis may cause some or all of the
more common in winter and affects people of all following symptoms:
ages.
 nausea and vomiting that may last a day or two
WHAT CAUSES GASTROENTERITIS?  diarrhoea, which usually lasts one to three days
but can last up to 10 days
Viruses are the most common cause of
 stomach cramps and pain
gastroenteritis. There are many kinds of viruses, so
gastroenteritis can occur more than once.  fever.

Viruses that cause gastroenteritis are found in Symptoms of more severe gastroenteritis include
human faeces. failing to keep down any fluids, not passing much
urine and feeling faint while standing up. If you have
Bacteria and parasites can also cause any of these symptoms you should seek urgent
gastroenteritis and are usually found in medical care.
contaminated food or water (food poisoning). Food
poisoning usually occurs six to 12 hours after eating Diarrhoea that is black is not gastroenteritis – it
spoiled food. can indicate bleeding in the stomach or bowel and
requires urgent medical treatment.
HOW IS IT SPREAD? Vomiting and diarrhoea can also be symptoms of
other important illnesses. If you are concerned, see
Viral gastroenteritis is spread easily from person to
your doctor.
person. When a person vomits or has diarrhoea,
small droplets containing the virus can
contaminate surfaces such as taps, toilet flush
handles, children’s toys and nappies. People with
gastroenteritis can spread the virus up to 48 hours
after their symptoms have stopped.
TREATMENT STOPPING THE SPREAD OF
GASTROENTERITIS
Gastroenteritis is often mild and treatment will
depend on the type. There are many ways to reduce the spread of
gastroenteritis.
 It is important to stay hydrated. Small amounts
of fluid (sips) often are usually better tolerated,  Do not share your towels, face washer,
especially by people who are feeling sick. toothbrush, drinks or cutlery with others.
Solutions such as Gastrolyte or Hydralyte help  Wash your hands well (for at least 10 seconds)
replace the water and salts lost by vomiting and
with warm soapy water after using the toilet,
diarrhoea. Follow the instructions on the packet.
changing nappies, cleaning up vomit and before
Fluids like fruit juice and flat lemonade can be
eating or cooking meals.
helpful if dilute with water (one part
 Handle, store and prepare raw and cooked foods
juice/lemonade and four parts water).
apart. Cook all raw foods well.
 Your doctor may advise taking a medication to
 People who have gastroenteritis should not
stop the diarrhoea (Imodium, Lomotil). Follow the
prepare or handle food for others.
instructions on the packet. These medications
are not suitable for children.  Stay at home and away from others while you
are unwell.
 Anti-nausea medication may be prescribed for
nausea and vomiting. It is okay to eat if you are  Clean bathrooms and toilets often.
hungry.  Take care when handling animals and their
 Antibiotics are only needed if the gastroenteritis faeces or urine.
is caused by bacteria or parasites. A sample of  If you think the source of your illness may have
your diarrhoea may be tested for this. been food, report it to your local council’s health
 Some people may need intravenous (into the department right away. Keep any leftover food
vein) fluids if they are very dehydrated. for testing.
 Return to school or work – guidelines vary
HOME CARE between schools and workplaces. Hospital,
healthcare and food handling staff should not
 Drink small amounts (sips) of clear fluids such as
water often (every five to 10 minutes). The fluids return to work until 48 hours after the diarrhoea
has settled. Check with your school/work about
will not stop the vomiting and diarrhoea but will
their requirements.
stop you getting dehydrated.
 Eat if you feel hungry. Start with bland foods
such as crackers, rice, bananas or dry toast. You
should be back on normal fluids and diet in 48–
72 hours, even if diarrhoea continues.
 Get plenty of rest.
 You should return to your doctor or hospital if
you are unable to keep down enough fluids, feel
dizzy when moving from sitting to standing, have
pain that is not controlled by simple medications
such as paracetamol, develop other symptoms,
have a significant worsening of symptoms or
your symptoms do not settle down in 24–48
hours.
 WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Seeking help  Ask your local doctor or healthcare professional.
In a medical emergency call an ambulance –  Visit the Better Health Channel at
dial triple zero (000). www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au.
See your local doctor or healthcare
professional if you have:
• stomach pain that is getting worse
• frequent vomiting or diarrhoea or both
• blood or mucus in your faeces (diarrhoea)
or ‘black’ diarrhoea
• passed little or no urine
• are unable to keep down fluids
• feel dizzy or faint on standing
• you develop other symptoms that concern
you.
For health advice from a registered nurse
you can call NURSE-ON-CALL 24 hours a day
on 1300 60 60 24 for the cost of a local call
from anywhere in Victoria.*
NURSE-ON-CALL provides access to
interpreting services for callers not confident
with English.

* Calls from mobiles may be charged at a higher rate.

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Place, Melbourne.
13 36 77 if required, or email
© State of Victoria, Also available online at
emergencycare.clinicalnetwork@safercare.vic.gov.au Australia, Safer Care www.safercare.vic.gov.au
Victoria, May 2019
Disclaimer: This health information is for general education purposes only. Please
consult with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is ISBN 978-1-76069-830-0
right for you. (pdf/online/MS word)