Viral Gastroenteritis (Viral Gastrointestinal Infection)

Inflammation of the stomach accompanied by diarrhea and vomiting is known as gastroenteritis, also referred to as a viral gastrointestinal infection or stomach flu. This infection can affect people of all ages, races, and genders worldwide.

Viral gastroenteritis is an intestinal infection characterized by watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever. The most common ways of becoming infected are through contact with an infected person, consuming contaminated food or water, and, in many cases, through the fecal–oral route. There is no specific effective treatment for viral gastroenteritis, so prevention is the best approach. Avoiding contaminated food and water, along with frequent and thorough handwashing and hand disinfection, are the most effective preventive measures.

Symptoms

• Watery diarrhea without blood (bloody diarrhea usually indicates a more severe bacterial infection)
• Abdominal cramps and pain (spasms)
• Nausea and vomiting
• In some cases, muscle aches and headache
• Fever

Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis usually appear within 1 to 3 days after infection, depending on the cause. The illness generally lasts 2 to 10 days.

When to See a Doctor

Adults

Seek medical attention if you:

• Are unable to keep liquids down for 24 hours
• Have nausea and vomiting for more than 2 days
• Notice blood in your vomit
• Experience severe dehydration, including excessive thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination with dark yellow urine, severe weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Notice blood in your stool
• Have a fever higher than 40°C (104°F)

Children

Seek medical attention if the child has:

• A fever of 38.9°C (102°F) or higher
• Extreme tiredness or lethargy
• Significant pain or discomfort
• Bloody diarrhea
• Signs of dehydration (compare the amount of fluids consumed with the child’s urine output to help detect dehydration)

Types of Viruses That Cause Gastrointestinal Infections

Norovirus

Noroviruses infect both children and adults and are the leading cause of foodborne illness worldwide. Norovirus infections can spread rapidly within families and communities, particularly in crowded or enclosed environments. The virus is commonly transmitted through contaminated food and water and can also spread from person to person.

Rotavirus

Rotavirus is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis in children. Children often become infected by putting virus-contaminated hands or objects into their mouths. Rotavirus infection is especially common in infants and young children. Adults may have no noticeable symptoms but can still carry and spread the virus.

People at Higher Risk of Gastroenteritis

• Children, because their immune systems are not yet fully developed. Daycare centers and elementary schools are common settings for transmission.
• Older adults, whose immune systems weaken with age. Those living in nursing homes are at particularly high risk because of close contact with others.
• Students in schools, dormitories, and other crowded living environments, as well as people in other public places where infections can spread more easily.
• People with weakened immune systems, including those living with HIV/AIDS, individuals undergoing chemotherapy, and others with compromised immunity.

Prevention

The best ways to prevent viral gastroenteritis include:

Wash and Disinfect Your Hands

Thorough handwashing is essential, especially after using the restroom. Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 30 seconds, rubbing all surfaces thoroughly, including around the fingernails and between the fingers. When soap and water are unavailable, use disinfectant wipes or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Children should also be taught the proper way to wash and disinfect their hands.

Use Personal Items Separately

Avoid sharing eating utensils, cups, plates, or other personal items with others, especially in workplaces, public places, or if someone in your household is sick. Use separate towels in the bathroom.

Disinfect Hard Surfaces

Regularly disinfect hard household surfaces such as countertops, faucets, and door handles using appropriate disinfectant solutions, especially if someone in the household has viral gastroenteritis.