Preventing gastroenteritis

It's not always possible to avoid gettinggastroenteritis, but following the advice below can help stop it spreading:

  • Stay off work, school or nursery until at least 48 hours after the symptoms have passed . You or your child should also avoid visiting anyone in hospital during this time.
  • Ensure you and your child wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water , particularly after using the toilet and before preparing food. Don't rely on alcohol hand gels, as they're not always effective.
  • Disinfect any surfaces or objects that could be contaminated. It's best to use a bleach-based household cleaner.
  • Wash contaminated items of clothing or bedding separately on a hot wash.
  • Don't share towels, flannels, cutlery or utensils while you or your child is ill.
  • Flush away any poo or vomit in the toilet or potty and clean the surrounding area.
  • Practice good food hygiene. Make sure food is properly refrigerated, always cook your food thoroughly, and never eat food that is past its use-by date read more about preventing food poisoning .

Take extra care when travelling to parts of the world with poor sanitation, as you could pick up a stomach bug. For example, you may need to boil tap water before drinking it.

Young children can have the rotavirus vaccination when theyre two to three months old, which can reduce their risk of developing gastroenteritis.

and food and water safety abroad .

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018