Summer, Viruses and Hydration: Everything You Need to Know About Diarrhea and Vomiting

Frequent diarrhea and repeated vomiting in children and infants are common during the summer. They are caused primarily by viruses or bacterial infections. In most cases, the infection spreads through direct contact and can be prevented through careful handwashing, although in some cases it is also transmitted through the air. The illness usually begins with repeated vomiting, followed by fever and diarrhea.

How is it diagnosed?

The specific virus is diagnosed based solely on the clinical presentation. Physicians make the diagnosis according to the time of year and the child's symptoms. No special laboratory tests are needed to identify the specific virus, as the primary goal is to begin supportive treatment immediately to help the child recover.

Handwashing helps reduce the risk of infection with the viruses and bacteria that cause diarrhea and vomiting

Treatment

In most cases, the illness resolves on its own (spontaneous recovery) within three to five days. The most important priority is ensuring adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, maintaining good hygiene, and treating fever with fever-reducing medication as needed. Most cases are viral and do not require antibiotics. Antibiotic treatment is given only in certain cases, for example, when there is clear evidence of a bacterial infection confirmed by a stool culture or when the child's clinical condition is poor and accompanied by underlying medical conditions.

It is important to note that delaying fluid replacement can lead to severe dehydration. However, fluids can certainly be given by mouth if the child is not vomiting. At the hospital, treatment primarily consists of administering fluids, usually for about 24 hours, along with medication to stop the vomiting in order to replace what the body has lost.

When should you go to the Emergency Department?

Seek urgent medical evaluation at the hospital in any of the following situations: 

• Unable to drink fluids: The child is unable to keep fluids down and is vomiting or experiencing frequent diarrhea. 
• Altered level of consciousness: Confusion or lethargy that persists even after receiving fever-reducing medication. 
• Neurological symptoms: Severe headaches. 
• Bloody diarrhea. 
• Duration of illness: Diarrhea lasting longer than five days.

In summary, to get through the summer without diarrhea and vomiting, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly, maintain good hygiene, and don't forget to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.