First Aid News

Gastro

Most gastro is viral and infection resolves on its own. It can, however, have more severe outcomes for some people, such as the elderly or newborns. If you are concerned about the length or severity of symptoms, please call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24 at any time or visit your GP. It is very easy to spread this infection. 

Symptoms

Symptoms can take up to three days to develop and usually last between one or two days and sometimes longer. Symptoms include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhoea
• fever
• abdominal pain
• headache and muscle aches.

These may be more severe in the elderly and very young.

Ways to help stop spreading this illness

Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to stop the spread of infection. While effective against COVID-19, alcohol-based hand sanitisers are not effective against many of the viruses that cause gastroenteritis. Make sure children keep drinking fluids when sick to prevent dehydration from vomiting or diarrhoea. Clean surfaces, benchtops, bathrooms and toys regularly so the infection does not spread to others in your house. If anyone is sick with vomiting or diarrhoea, everyone should remain at home until their symptoms have stopped for 48 hours, as you all may still spread the infection during this time. Although this infection will likely only last a few days, it is very unpleasant and very easy to pass on to other people, so please follow this advice to keep your family and other families protected.