Viral Gastroenteritis

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What is Viral Gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestine. There are many causes of gastroenteritis – some more serious than others. Viruses are the most common cause of gastroenteritis and result in vomiting and/or diarrhea.

What are the symptoms of viral gastroenteritis?

Most people will get sick between 1 to 2 days after being exposed to the virus. The infection comes on quickly with the following symptoms:

• Vomiting

• Watery diarrhea without blood

Some patients develop:

• Abdominal cramps

• Headache

• Muscle aches

• Low-grade fever

How do I rehydrate myself and prevent dehydration?

For the first several hours during vomiting, it is best not to eat or drink anything to give your stomach a rest. After 1 hour of not vomiting, gradually start drinking sips of clear liquids– ice chips, ginger ale, non-caffeinated sports drinks. Take a sip every 5-10 minutes to start. Slowly increase the amount of fluids and decrease the intervals between sips as tolerated. If vomiting occurs, stop and wait 1 full hour, then restart the process of slowly drinking clear liquids again. Once tolerating liquids consistently for several hours (approximately 6 hours) try eating a bland diet such as:

• Clear broth

• Gelatin (Jell-0) 

• Plain rice or pasta

• Oatmeal

• Saltines, toast

On the third day you may progress to a more regular diet.

• Avoid any gastric irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, fatty or spicy foods, dairy products, nicotine, aspirin and ibuprofen (Tylenol/Acetaminophen is ok)

• Avoid sudden positions changes and avoid taking hot showers – This could make you feel more dizzy and/or cause you to pass out, fall and injure yourself

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

• Vomiting persists for more than 24-48 hours

• Vomiting blood

• Bloody diarrhea

• High fever of 101 F or above

• Increased abdominal pain

• Serious dehydration (No urination in 8-12 hours, extreme dizziness, thirst, fatigue, no tears, saliva is thick)

How do I avoid spreading it?

• Wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom

• Do not prepare food for others or serve food to others

• Do not share cups or eating utensils that have not been washed; do not share towels with others

• Clean the toilet and bathroom surfaces with bleach disinfectant wipes after each use

• Clean non-porous surfaces in your living environment with bleach disinfectant wipes Student nurses, athletes and food handlers should be cleared by the SHC before returning to their activities.

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