What is gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis (gastro) is a common condition which affects the gut. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain and sickness. It is caused by an infection and often begins without warning.
It is not usually serious, but it can lead to dehydration. Gastro can usually be treated at home. In more serious cases, or for people who are young, old or who have a weakened immune system, a more serious illness may develop.
In children, especially very young children or children with other health conditions, gastroenteritis may be more of a concern. The main concern with gastroenteritis is dehydration. If your child is only passing small amounts of urine or has very dark urine or is vomiting a lot or is lethargic, please see a doctor for assessment.