Stomach bugs, also known as stomach flu or gastroenteritis, are especially common in summer months and frequently affect children. Caring for a child with such an illness can be daunting for parents; however, South Africa’s first national courier pharmacy offers some pointers for managing the symptoms effectively at home.

“Gastroenteritis is caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites infecting the stomach or intestines leading to inflammation. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps,” says pharmacist Werner Berg of Medipost Pharmacy, South Africa’s trusted national courier pharmacy.

“Many of the germs that cause gastroenteritis spread easily. Touching food or the mouth after handling something that’s contaminated is a common route of transmission. Close contact and sharing food or drinks with someone infected, even if they aren’t feeling sick, can also spread bacteria, and certain viruses.”

Assessing the severity

“Although the symptoms of pain, mild fever, nausea and diarrhoea can often be treated at home, parents should consult their family doctor or the emergency department if the child is unable to take fluids for several hours, is urinating less often at intervals of more than six to eight hours or has signs of dehydration such as crying without tears,” Berg says.

“Also, if the child is very sleepy or less alert, seek medical attention immediately. If vomiting continues for more than 24 hours or diarrhoea does not improve after several days, it is important to see the doctor.”

Home management with over-the-counter medications

In less severe cases, the symptoms can often be managed at home with non-prescription medication in consultation with your pharmacist.

• For diarrhoea: Use loperamide 1mg syrup. Administer 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: Medication containing cyclizine in syrup form can be administered to the child in 5ml doses every eight hours as needed.

Always check the package insert and never exceed the recommended dosage. When not in use, store out of reach of children in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

“If there is no relief from the symptoms after using these two medications, it is essential to consult your child’s doctor or take the child to an emergency department for medical assessment,” Berg advises.

“If your child is also in pain or has a fever, you can manage these with acetaminophen or ibuprofen, although ibuprofen is not suitable for children under six months old. Children and teens should not have aspirin, as it may cause Reye Syndrome – a rare but serious swelling of the liver and brain following a viral infection.”

Beware of dehydration

“A lot of fluid is lost from having an upset stomach and vomiting, and this can lead to dehydration, which can be potentially dangerous. Encourage the child to drink fluids. Mild dehydration can be treated with an oral rehydration solution to replace lost electrolytes,” suggests Berg.

To make a rehydration solution, use one litre of water, preferably previously boiled and cooled to lukewarm, and mix in seven teaspoons of sugar and one teaspoon of salt.

“Give your child oral electrolyte solution as often as possible. If your child has difficulty holding it down, start with small sips, so the child is consuming about one to two teaspoons every few minutes,” Berg says.

“A dehydration solution is preferable to drinking plain water, full-strength juice or sports drinks, which lack the right amount of nutrients needed. Older children can have frozen electrolyte popsicles, which may be more appetising when feeling nauseous,” he recommends.

“Babies can continue to breastfeed or take formula, as long as they are not vomiting excessively.”

Anyone registered with Medipost Pharmacy’s chronic medication delivery service or online shop can access confidential telephonic clinical advice from pharmacists and pharmacist assistants in any official South African language.

Prevention is the best medicine

“The best way to prevent stomach flu illnesses is to stop the germs from spreading. Everyone in the family must be taught to wash their hands well and often, for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, especially before eating or handling food, and after going to the bathroom,” Berg says.

“Keep your child at home from school or day care if they have gastroenteritis symptoms, as it is contagious. Regularly clean doorknobs and frequently touched surfaces to reduce the chances of illness spreading within the household.

“In children, viruses are the most common cause of gastroenteritis, with rotavirus being a frequent culprit. Consult your paediatrician or clinic about the rotavirus vaccine as it can prevent infection and potentially save your family from sleepless nights.”

For more information, please visit https://medipost.co.za/ or WhatsApp 012 426 4655 to register.