Viral gastroenteritis

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Introduction Signs and symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Screening and diagnosis Complications Treatment Prevention Self-care

Introduction

Yesterday, you were enjoying a tasty meal at your favorite restaurant, and now you're doubled over with pain. These symptoms could be those of viral gastroenteritis — an intestinal infection marked by watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea or vomiting, and sometimes fever.

You usually develop viral gastroenteritis — often called stomach flu — after contact with an infected person or because you've ingested contaminated food or water. If you're otherwise healthy, you'll likely recover without complications. But for infants, older adults and people with compromised immune systems, viral gastroenteritis can be deadly.

There's no effective treatment for viral gastroenteritis, so prevention is key. In addition to avoiding food and water that may be contaminated, thorough and frequent hand washing is your best defense.

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Signs and symptoms