Outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis are common in US schools and child care facilities

Gastroenteritis, or stomach flu, occurs when the digestive tract (specifically the small intestine) becomes inflamed due to any of several infectious agents. It’s characterized by nausea, vomiting and diarrhea; some cases can lead to more serious complications like dehydration and acidosis. Acute gastroenteritis outbreaks are common in US schools and child care facilities, but there are ways to prevent them.

What is acute gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis—also called stomach flu or food poisoning—is a short-term illness that causes inflammation of your digestive tract. Because so many germs can cause it, symptoms vary depending on where you’re infected and what germ is causing it. The most common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), abdominal pain, body aches and headache. People usually recover without treatment within 24 hours to 10 days.

How can I protect myself from getting sick with acute gastroenteritis?

Here's how: Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds after using the toilet or changing a diaper; before eating or preparing food; after touching an animal or animal waste; when caring for someone who is sick with diarrhea; and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. Clean surfaces (especially those frequently touched by children) used during play such as toys, tables, chairs and floors daily with a disinfectant that contains bleach.

Are there vaccines for this illness?

Although vaccines exist for some infectious agents associated with childhood outbreaks of viral gastroenteritis, none currently exist for norovirus or rotavirus (the leading cause of outbreaks among young children). The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices does not currently recommend routine administration of rotavirus vaccine due to a lack of widespread disease in all areas where it is recommended and concerns about vaccine safety.

What can I do if I get sick with an infection caused by Norovirus or Rotavirus?

CDC recommends following these steps if you get sick with an infection caused by Norovirus or Rotavirus. Keep your hands clean by washing with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol when hands are not visibly soiled; use hand sanitizer after using a restroom or changing diapers.

Where can I get more information about protecting my health from these infections?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers more information about preventing these infections. You can contact your state health department or visit their website for additional advice about outbreaks in your area.