Gastroenteritis is an infection of the gastrointestinal tract that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines.

Commonly known as the stomach flu or food poisoning, it is caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and spreads through contaminated food, water, or contact with an infected person. The symptoms of gastroenteritis include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and dehydration.

Although gastroenteritis is common and often resolves on its own, it can be serious for people who have weakened immune systems or are elderly or very young. Here are some tips for preventing gastroenteritis and staying healthy:.

Wash Your Hands Frequently

One of the most important things you can do to prevent gastroenteritis is to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.

This means washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after touching anything that could be contaminated. If you don’t have access to soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

Gastroenteritis can spread through contaminated surfaces, such as kitchen countertops, bathroom fixtures, and toys. To prevent the spread of germs, clean and disinfect surfaces frequently using a disinfectant cleaner or a mixture of bleach and water.

Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and wear gloves to protect your hands.

Cook Food Thoroughly

Cooking food thoroughly is an important step in preventing gastroenteritis. This means cooking meat, poultry, and fish to a safe internal temperature, using a food thermometer to check if necessary.

Avoid eating raw or undercooked food, including eggs, sushi, and unpasteurized dairy products. Also, be sure to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating or cooking them.

Practice Food Safety

Another way to prevent gastroenteritis is to practice food safety.

This means following basic food safety guidelines, such as washing your hands before and after handling food, keeping raw meat separate from ready-to-eat food, storing food at the correct temperature, and checking expiration dates on food products. If you’re unsure about the safety of a food product, throw it away.

Related Article Preventing Gastroenteritis: How to Keep Yourself Safe

Avoid Contact with Sick People

If someone around you has symptoms of gastroenteritis, it’s important to avoid contact with them to prevent the spread of infection.

This means avoiding shaking hands, sharing utensils or food, and coming into close contact with infected individuals. If you need to care for someone who is sick, wear gloves and a face mask to protect yourself.

Stay Hydrated

If you do develop gastroenteritis, it’s important to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration. This means drinking plenty of water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions that contain electrolytes.

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary beverages, which can make dehydration worse. If you’re unable to keep fluids down or are experiencing severe dehydration, seek medical attention immediately.

Take Precautions While Traveling

If you’re traveling to a developing country, take extra precautions to avoid gastroenteritis.

This means drinking only bottled or purified water, avoiding ice in drinks, avoiding raw or undercooked foods, and practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently. Consider getting vaccinated against the most common causes of gastroenteritis in the region you’re traveling to.

Get Vaccinated

Some forms of gastroenteritis, such as rotavirus, can be prevented by vaccination. Talk to your doctor about whether you or your children should receive vaccinations against rotavirus or other common causes of gastroenteritis.

Vaccination is especially important for people who have weakened immune systems or are at high risk for complications from gastroenteritis.

Conclusion

Gastroenteritis is a common infection that can be prevented by practicing good hygiene, food safety, and taking precautions while traveling. If you do develop gastroenteritis, stay hydrated and seek medical attention if necessary.

By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of gastroenteritis and stay healthy.