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It is an illness which may cause symptoms like diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, fever and headache. The causes of gastroenteritis are bacteria, viruses and certain parasites, found in soil, animals including birds, and humans.Gastroenteritis is also sometimes referred to as "stomach flu," even though it is not related to influenza.

Causes of gastroenteritis

1: The most common cause of gastroenteritis is viral infection.

2:  The infectious agents can come from outside your body or internally from some abnormal condition. For example, both normal and disease causing intestinal bacteria may grow when antacids or other medication alter the stomach acidity.

3: Gastroenteritis arises from ingestion of viruses, certain bacteria, or parasites. Food that has spoiled may also cause illness.

4:  Viruses and bacteria are the most common causes and are very contagious and can spread through contaminated food or water.

5:  Drinking water that is not clean.

6:  Food poisoning (eating food that has germs in it - if the food was prepared without washing dirty hands).

7:  Having close contact with an infected person. This includes kissing, eating or drinking from the same dishes, or sharing utensils such as forks and spoons.


Symptoms of gastroenteritis:

1:  The main symptoms of viral gastroenteritis are watery diarrhea and vomiting
2:  Abdominal (belly) cramps or pain.
3:  Acting tired, and fussy.
4:  Headaches or muscle aches.
5:  High body temperature (fever).
6:  Nausea (upset stomach) and vomiting (throwing up).
7:  Not wanting to eat.
8:  Severe weakness or lethargy.

Treatment: 

1:  Adequate rest is advised.
2:  Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
3:  Eat in less quantity so that the food digests.
4:  Avoid diary products.
5:  Avoid eating if nauseated.
6:  Do not give water to a child with gastroenteritis. Give other prescribed rehydration liquids Or give a mixture of salt and glucose in water.
7:  Consider acetaminophen for relief.However avoid acetaminophen in case of liver disease.
8:  Avoid aspirin.


Most infectious organisms are transmitted by unwashed hands. The best way to prevent viral gastroenteritis is to handle food properly and wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet.