Doctors Report 5-6 Daily Cases of Acute Gastroenteritis Among Children Aged 3-12 Years

Navi Mumbai: Acute gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu, frequently worries parents, particularly during the monsoon season. This condition, characterized by inflammation of the stomach and intestines, predominantly affects children aged 3 to 12 years. The inflammation caused by these pathogens can result in various distressing symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, dehydration, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.

"Children are more likely to develop acute gastroenteritis due to weakened immunity and improper hygiene. A healthy immune system helps combat against invading parasites, viruses, and bacteria. But the child's immune system is still developing making them easily get infected and sick, resulting in acute gastroenteritis. Poor hygiene habits include not washing hands after using the washroom, touching food or water, or using dirty surfaces. Through unwashed hands, germs can easily enter the stomach causing discomfort and digestive problems. Viruses like rotavirus, norovirus, adenovirus, and astroviruses commonly cause gastroenteritis," said Dr. Sanju Sidaraddi, Consultant - Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai

Dr. Sanju added, "Children in the age group 3-12 suffering from acute gastroenteritis might experience symptoms like bloating, stomach pain, dehydration, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, cramps and pain around the abdominal area, headache, muscle pain, and fever. In the last few months the cases have increased, we are seeing around 5 to 6 cases daily with the above complaints. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends oral hydration solution (ORS), zinc supplementation for loose motions, and home-cooked foods. The doctor will decide on the need for antibiotics and probiotics. To prevent acute gastroenteritis in children, the parents should take the necessary precautions like hand washing, drinking boiled water, avoiding street food, and eating home-cooked food."

"Acute gastroenteritis or stomach flu in children is commonly seen due to viral infections, such as rotavirus and norovirus, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Bacterial infections from organisms like E.coli or salmonella also cause this infection in children. Poor hygiene practices like not washing hands properly can increase the risk of contracting the virus or bacteria responsible for this worrisome condition in children. It will be imperative for parents to be attentive when it comes to their child’s health and report the symptoms to the doctor without any delay. This will help the doctor to initiate timely treatment for successful outcomes in children. To prevent this condition, children should follow good personal hygiene practices, drink boiled water, and avoid eating roadside food. Prompt intervention is key to managing this condition in children.," said Dr. Sanju Sidaraddi.