Gastroenteritis is an infection of the bowel that causes diarrhoea and sometimes vomiting. It is very common in young children and is mainly caused by viruses, particularly rotavirus and norovirus. It can be dangerous, especially for babies and young children.
The viruses can easily be picked up from other people who may have immunity but pass on the infection. Bacteria, usually on contaminated food and often spread by flies, can also cause the problem.
Common symptoms can include:
- diarrhoea – frequent, loose, watery motions
- vomiting
- abdominal pain – comes and goes
- crying in babies with gastroenteritis
- bleeding -uncommon but sometimes seen in motions
- fever is sometimes present