Keep yourself safe from gastro-intestinal illness Published March 21, 2013 GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Recently there has been a small increase in gastro-intestinal (GI) illness in the community. Several types of viruses and bacteria can cause GI illness. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting. People can develop GI illness by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their mouths or not washing their hands before eating, or having direct contact with someone who is infected. The number one way to prevent illness is to wash your hands. It is important that you wash your hands frequently, especially before eating. Always wash your hands after going to the bathroom, changing diapers, and before eating, preparing or handling food. You should not prepare food or provide healthcare to others while you are sick. Other ways to prevent illness include cleaning and disinfecting contaminated surfaces. If you develop a gastrointestinal illness, maintain hydration by continuously drinking small amounts of fluids. Children should be given Pedialyte in small amounts around the clock to maintain hydration. Children can eat a bland diet (bananas, rice, applesauce and toast) to help with diarrhea. With proper hydration and rest, the illness typically resolves in 3 to 10 days. You can take Tylenol for headache, body aches or fever. If you experience dizziness when standing up, severe abdominal pain or high fever (over 102 F), you should call the clinic for a medical appointment at (701) 747-5601. If the clinic is closed, the urgent care or emergency room at Altru should be utilized. (Courtesy of the 319th Medical Operations Squadron)