Gastroenteritis: what is it and what causes it?
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Gastroenteritis is an infection of the guts (intestines). The severity can range from a mild tummy upset for a day or two with some mild diarrhoea, to severe diarrhoea and vomiting for several days or longer. Many viruses, bacteria, and other microbes (germs) can cause gastroenteritis.
- A virus is a common cause in the UK. Sometimes it is just 'one of those germs going about'. Viruses are easily spread from one person to another by close contact, or when an infected person prepares food for others.
- Food poisoning (infected food) causes some cases of gastroenteritis. Many different types of germs can cause food poisoning. Common examples are bacteria called campylobacter and salmonella.
- Water contaminated by bacteria or other germs is a common cause, particularly in countries with poor sanitation.
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