What is making you sick this season? Published Feb. 8, 2007 By Dr. Maj Kim Bradley 319th Medical group GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, ND -- Many people are getting a "stomach bug" this time of year, which can cause upset stomach, mild abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. These are common symptoms of Acute Gastroenteritis, which is a common illness. AGE can be caused by several things including viruses, bacteria, parasites and foods that are hard to digest, such as too many sweets. We are seeing the expected seasonal increase in AGE as well as other seasonal illnesses such as colds in schools and spreading through families. Normally, affected individuals may experience a mild illness and recover on their own in a few days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 90 percent of AGE cases are cause by a common virus called Norovirus. This is not the Norwalk virus associated with food poisoning outbreaks on cruise ships. We do not normally test for this virus just as we do not normally test for which specific virus is causing the common cold. Viruses are very contagious and can spread easily from person to person or by contact with contaminated surfaces. Infected people are considered contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill until a day or so after they are well. Children who are ill should not be sent to school or the Child Development Center as this will expose other children, teachers and child care providers to the illness and contribute to the spread of disease in our community. Currently, there is no medication that works against Norovirus or other viruses associated with AGE, and there is no vaccine to prevent infection. Viruses cannot be treated with antibiotics. This is because antibiotics work to fight bacteria and not viruses. To speed recovery, drink plenty of fluids and rest. To Prevent the Spread of AGE and Other Illnesses: · Frequently wash your hands with soap, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers and before eating or preparing food. · Carefully wash fresh fruits and vegetables; clean surfaces and utensils after handling meats · Thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness by using an antimicrobial or bleach-based household cleaner. · Immediately remove and wash clothing or linens that may be contaminated after an episode of illness (use warm or hot water and soap or detergent). · Flush any vomit or stool in the toilet and make sure that the surrounding area is kept clean. Vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration. Dehydration occurs when too much fluid is lost from the body. Young babies can become dehydrated very quickly, but dehydration can occur in at any age. Signs of dehydration include: · Urine that is darker than usual · Not urinating ("peeing") as often as usual · Not eating or drinking as well as usual · Dry mouth · Headache Additional signs to watch for in babies and children: · Irritability, excessive fussiness · Lethargy, lack of responsiveness · Weight loss · Fast heartbeat Prevent Dehydration If you or your child has had several bouts of vomiting or diarrhea, fluids are needed to replace those lost. Adults and children older than two years can have small, frequent sips of drinks such as water, apple juice, chicken broth, sports drinks, ginger ale or tea. Drinking water is important, but drinking only plain water during a bout of AGE can cause problems, such as lowering the amount of salt or sugar in the blood. Medication to stop diarrhea usually isn't needed and may interfere with the body's efforts to get rid of the infection. In mild cases over-the-counter medications, such as stomach soothers may be helpful for adults and children (five or older). Talk to your health care provider if you think your baby or young child needs medicine to stop diarrhea. Warning Signs! Call your doctor if vomiting and/or diarrhea are present AND: · The illness occurs in any child younger than six months · There is a fever of 101.4°F or higher · There are signs of dehydration · Vomiting lasts more than eight hours or is with great force · Bowel movements are bloody or slimy · There is blood or green slime in the vomit · No urination in eight hours or more Contact Tricare at 747-5601 for an appointment.