Tips for parents on managing kids’ stomach bugs

As summer temperatures soar, stomach bugs, also known as gastroenteritis or the stomach flu, are becoming more common. This illness, which often affects children, can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps, leaving parents worried and unsure of how to best care for their little ones at home.

Pharmacist Werner Berg, from Medipost Pharmacy, South Africa’s first national courier pharmacy, shared some valuable advice for managing mild stomach bug symptoms in children, helping local parents to navigate this challenging time with ease.

“Gastroenteritis is caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites that infect the stomach or intestines, leading to inflammation,” explained Berg. “It can be easily transmitted through contact with contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Children, in particular, are more likely to get sick, and the illness is highly contagious. It’s important to be vigilant, especially in shared spaces like schools, daycares, and even family gatherings.”

While gastroenteritis symptoms are often uncomfortable, they can usually be treated at home in less severe cases. However, parents should always be on the lookout for warning signs that may require medical attention. According to Berg, parents should seek immediate medical advice if their child shows any of the following:

• Inability to take fluids for several hours
• Urinating less frequently, with intervals of more than six to eight hours
• Signs of dehydration, such as crying without tears or a dry mouth
• Extreme drowsiness or a lack of alertness
• Vomiting for more than 24 hours or diarrhoea that persists for several days

For less severe cases, Berg recommends over-the-counter medications that can help ease symptoms. For diarrhoea, the pharmacist advises using loperamide 1mg syrup, with a dosage of 5ml (one medicine measure) per 12.5kg of the child’s body weight, after each loose stool, up to three times a day. For nausea and vomiting, a syrup containing cyclizine can be given in 5ml doses every eight hours as needed.

“It’s always important to follow the instructions on the medication packaging and never exceed the recommended dose,” Berg cautioned. “If there’s no improvement after using these medications, parents should consult a healthcare professional.”

Aside from medication, one of the biggest concerns with stomach bugs is dehydration. Vomiting and diarrhoea can quickly lead to fluid loss, which can be dangerous for children. To help prevent dehydration, Berg encourages parents to offer their children fluids frequently, even if in small sips.

“Oral rehydration solutions, available at local pharmacies like Medipost, are specially formulated to replace lost electrolytes,” said Berg. “You can also make a homemade solution by mixing one liter of lukewarm, previously boiled water with seven teaspoons of sugar and one teaspoon of salt. This solution is much better than giving your child plain water, juice, or sports drinks, which don’t contain the right balance of nutrients.”

For babies, breastfeeding or formula feeding is recommended as long as they aren’t vomiting excessively. Older children can also benefit from electrolyte popsicles, which can be more appealing when they’re feeling nauseous.

Berg also offered some preventative advice for local families: “The best way to stop the spread of gastroenteritis is to maintain good hygiene practices. Teach your children to wash their hands thoroughly and regularly, especially before eating and after using the bathroom. You should also disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and bathroom handles to reduce the risk of illness spreading within the home.”

Lastly, Berg highlighted that vaccines can help prevent certain types of gastroenteritis. “In children, rotavirus is a leading cause of stomach bugs, and it can be prevented with the rotavirus vaccine. If you’re unsure whether your child has had it, talk to your pediatrician about getting vaccinated to help protect your family this summer.”