Gastroenteritis - Infants
What is it, exactly?
Gastroenteritis, often called a “stomach flu” or “gastro,” is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It often causes diarrhea (watery stools), vomiting, cramps, and sometimes fever.
What you can do at home
What to do
- If your child is breastfed or drinks infant formula only, continue feeding them regularly. If needed, offer smaller amounts more frequently.
- If your child no longer drinks only breast milk or infant formula, offer small amounts of an oral rehydration solution frequently. You can buy one at the pharmacy (such as Pedialyte or Gastrolyte), or make a homemade solution (do not hesitate to ask your pharmacist for advice) :
- 360 mL unsweetened orange juice
- 600 mL of cooled boiled water
- 2.5 mL (½ tsp) of salt
- Offer small meals and gradually increase portion sizes. Choose foods such as white pasta, rice, eggs, bread, lean meats, or unsweetened cereals.
- Wait 24 hours after your child’s diarrhea or vomiting has stopped before sending them back to daycare.
- Clean countertops, door handles, and toilets at home with a disinfectant to avoid spreading the illness to other family members.
- Wash your hands and your child’s hands often.
- Change diapers more frequently or use more absorbent diapers to help prevent leaks and diaper rash.
- Your child should not handle other people’s food.
- If your child seems uncomfortable or has a fever, follow the advice provided by your pharmacist. You may give acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), if appropriate. Note: ibuprofen is not recommended for children under 6 months old.
When to seek medical attention
If your child have any of these signs:
- has signs of mild dehydration (dry mouth, excessive thirst, urinating less often, fewer tears when crying, dark yellow urine);
- has diarrhea lasting more than 7 days;
- has mucus (thick liquid) in their stool for more than 2 days;
- has been vomiting for more than 2 consecutive days, even after following the recommendations;
- has a fever lasting more than 2 days, even with medication;
- is unable to take their medication;
- has developed diarrhea during or after travelling to another country;
- has not received the rotavirus vaccine or is not up to date.
Call 811, option 1, to speak with a nurse, or contact a healthcare professional (pharmacist, doctor, nurse practitioner).
When to go to the hospital immediately
You child:
- is unusually drowsy or difficult to wake;
- is less responsive;
- seems confused or unusually agitated;
- cries intensely or cannot be comforted;
- is not acting like themselves.
Your child has a large amount of blood in their stool or black stools.
Your child has severe stomach pain and a hard abdomen.
Your child is unable to drink or vomits all fluids, despite following the recommendations.
Your child has diarrhea, is very thirsty, and has not urinated for more than 12 hours (half a day).
Your child has bright red blood in their vomit.
Need help?
Call Info-Santé 811, option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Consult a pharmacist for advice on medications or treatment.
Book an appointment on Clic Santé if vaccination is needed.
Book an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, visit Primary Care Access Point (GAP) or dial 811, option 3.
Last update: January 1, 2026
Please note that this information does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. If you have any concerns, please consult a healthcare professional.
References:
- Self-Care Education Nursing Guides, CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale
See also
See the details of Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis
- Infants
- Children
- Adults
- Seniors
See the details of Superficial Wound
Superficial Wound
- Infants
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