An intestinal infection is when germs grow in the intestines in a way that causes disease. Germs like viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa and worms are living organisms that are all around us.
- Viruses: Tiny particles that take over your cells and cause illnesses like colds, flu or stomach bugs.
- Bacteria: Single-celled germs that can cause infections like strep throat or food poisoning.
- Fungus: Germs like yeast or mold that can infect the skin, mouth or intestines.
- Protozoa: Microscopic parasites that live in water or soil and can cause stomach infections like Giardiasis.
- Worms: Larger parasites that live in the gut and can cause belly pain, diarrhea or other health problems.
These germs are in water and soil, on the foods we eat and on surfaces that we touch, like countertops in the bathroom or kitchen.
Our intestines actually house a lot of germs, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa. But these are harmless or beneficial germs that help us digest food.
But some germs are more dangerous. They can make us quite ill if they get into our gut. An intestinal infection can cause a range of symptoms, depending on the germ.
Common gastrointestinal symptoms in kids include:
- Diarrhea (watery, bloody or frequent poops)
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Tiredness or weakness
- Gas or bloating
- Urgent need to poop
- Dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness or less peeing)
Most stomach bugs get better in one to three days. Some may last up to a week, but symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea usually improve after the first few days. Your child may feel tired or have a poor appetite for a few days after the worst symptoms go away.
When to Call a Doctor
Call your doctor if your child:
- Can’t keep any liquids down for more than 8 hours
- Has diarrhea for more than three days
- Has bloody poop or vomit
- Has a persistent high fever over 102°F
- Shows signs of dehydration
- Has severe belly pain
- Seems very sleepy or hard to wake up
How to Prevent the Spread of Intestinal Infections
If someone is sick at home or work, make sure to take extra precautions to prevent the spread of disease. These include:
- Wash hands often: Always wash with soap and water after using the bathroom, changing diapers and before eating or preparing food.
- Drink clean water: Use safe drinking water at home and when traveling. Avoid swallowing water from lakes, pools or splash pads.
- Cook food fully: Make sure meat, poultry and eggs are fully cooked. Don’t eat raw or undercooked foods.
- Avoid unpasteurized milk or juice: These can carry harmful germs like E. coli or Salmonella.
- Clean fruits and vegetables: Rinse produce well before eating, especially if you eat them raw.
- Keep sick kids home: If your child has vomiting or diarrhea, keep them out of school or daycare until they’ve been symptom-free for 24 hours.
- Avoid sharing food or drinks: This helps prevent the spread of viruses like rotavirus.
- Practice good diaper hygiene: Clean changing areas well and wash your hands right after changing diapers.
