Acute Gastroenteritis (Diarrhoea & Vomiting)

Acute gastroenteritis is a common childhood illness that causes diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. It is usually caused by viral or bacterial infections spread through contaminated food, water, or poor hand hygiene. The greatest concern is dehydration, especially in infants and young children, as they lose fluids much faster than adults. Signs of dehydration include excessive thirst, dry mouth, sunken eyes, reduced urination, and unusual drowsiness.

Most children recover well with adequate fluids, oral rehydration solution (ORS), and continued feeding. However, persistent vomiting, blood in the stools, high fever, or signs of dehydration require immediate medical evaluation. Good hand hygiene, safe drinking water, proper food preparation, and rotavirus vaccination play an important role in preventing this common illness and keeping children healthy.