Gastroenteritis

There have been anecdotal reports lately from around various towns in New South Wales that gastroenteritis has reared its ugly head again – and we’re not yet into summer.

Gastroenteritis, often simply called ‘gastro’ in Australia, is very common among young children, and refers to an inflammation of the stomach and bowel leading to vomiting and/or diarrhoea. In children, gastroenteritis is usually caused by an infection – most often with a virus, but it can also be caused by bacteria or parasites.

Viruses are often very contagious and spread easily from person to person. They sometimes cause outbreaks of gastroenteritis in places such as childcare centres and schools, where children are in close contact with each other. Viral gastroenteritis usually lasts one to 3 days.

Bacteria that commonly cause gastroenteritis include E. coli, Salmonella or Campylobacter. Bacterial gastroenteritis is usually caught by eating contaminated foods or water. When you get gastroenteritis from food it may be called food poisoning. Some bacteria produce toxins that can cause severe food poisoning, resulting in stomach cramps and vomiting a few hours after eating.

Gastroenteritis can also be caused by parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, usually via contaminated water or close contact with others. Increased vigilance with hand washing/sanitation is helpful in terms of preventing gastroenteritis caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites.

Unfortunately, another way you can catch gastroenteritis is though swimming or playing in contaminated water, such as at a water park, swimming pool, lagoon or river. Public swimming pools and water parks should be frequently tested and carefully monitored for bacteria. Always check for signs around lagoons or rivers to make sure they are not polluted and are safe for swimming.

The major concern in children with gastroenteritis is that they may become dehydrated (dry and lacking water) because of fluid loss through vomiting and diarrhoea. Babies and young children are particularly prone to dehydration.

The main symptoms of dehydration are being thirsty and not passing very much urine (in babies, having fewer wet nappies than usual). Other signs of dehydration may include a dry mouth and skin and feeling faint or light-headed. Signs of more severe dehydration include drowsiness, rapid or deep breathing, and cold hands or feet. Dehydration can be serious, so if you think your child may be dehydrated, take them to see your doctor as soon as possible or take your child to emergency at your nearby hospital. (Adapted from MyDr.com.au)

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