Gastroenteritis - Children

Infants (Ages 0–2)Children (Ages 3–17)Adults (Ages 10–74)Seniors (Ages 75 and Older)

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

Stay hydrated by drinking small amounts frequently of an oral rehydration solution from the pharmacy (such as Pedialyte or Gastrolyte), or make a homemade solution (eo 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
Eat small meals and gradually increase portion sizes. Choose foods such as white pasta, rice, eggs, bread, lean meats, or unsweetened cereals.
Wait 2 days after your diarrhea or vomiting has stopped before returning to school.
Clean countertops, door handles, and toilets at home with a disinfectant to avoid spreading the illness to other family members. Ask an adult to help you.
Wash your hands often.
If you have a fever or pain, you may take medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), if appropriate for you. Ask your pharmacist for advice.

Avoid

Avoid handling other people’s food.

When to seek medical attention

If you have any of these signs:

have signs of mild dehydration (dry mouth, excessive thirst, urinating less often, feeling weaker than usual);
have diarrhea lasting more than 7 days;
have mucus (thick liquid) in your stool for more than 2 days;
have a fever lasting more than 2 days, despite taking medication;
have been vomiting for more than 2 consecutive days, even after following the recommendations;
are unable to take your medication;
have a weakened immune system (immunocompromised);
developed diarrhea during or after travelling to another country.

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 suddenly:

find it harder than usual to stay awake (drowsiness) or are less responsive to what is happening around you;
feel confused or unusually agitated;
are eating and drinking less, while having difficulty carrying out your daily activities.

You have a large amount of blood in your stool, or your stool is black.

You have severe stomach pain and a hard abdomen.

You are unable to drink or keep fluids down, despite following the recommendations.

You have diarrhea, are extremely thirsty, and have not urinated for more than 12 hours (half a day).

There is blood in your 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 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.

Gastroenteritis - Children

What is it, exactly?

What you can do at home

When to seek medical attention

When to go to the hospital immediately

Need help?

See also

Gastroenteritis

Superficial Wound