Gastroenteritis, commonly known as \"stomach flu,\" is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines. It is primarily caused by viruses (e.g., Norovirus, Rotavirus), but can also result from bacteria or parasites. This widespread illness affects people of all ages globally, particularly young children and those in areas with inadequate sanitation.
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Gastroenteritis has been a prevalent disease throughout human history, once causing significant mortality, especially among infants. While symptoms were recognized for centuries, the specific viral and bacterial causes were identified largely in the 20th century, with Rotavirus in the 1970s and Norovirus in the 1960s. The widespread adoption of Oral Rehydration Therapy and the development of the Rotavirus vaccine have drastically reduced its global burden and infant mortality rates.
Gastroenteritis primarily spreads through the *fecal-oral route*. This occurs when microscopic particles of feces from an infected person are ingested by another, commonly via contaminated food or water. It can also spread through direct contact with an infected individual or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one's mouth.
Contagious Period: Varies by disease
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Hackensack Meridian HealthApr 21 2026
With a rising number of rotavirus cases being reported across the country and in New Jersey this spring, experts from Hackensack Meridian Children's Health are urging parents to ensure their children are vaccinated against this common and potentially severe illness. Rotavirus is a contagious virus that can cause gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Symptoms include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain, which
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A cluster of 53 acute gastroenteritis cases is under investigation at a training institute in Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, with symptom onset beginning 05 Mar 2026 among boarding students who shared meals at the institute's food premises. All cases remain mild with no hospitalizations, though the causative pathogen is unknown pending laboratory confirmation of stool samples. Multi-agency response includes environmental investigation, cleaning and disinfection of food premises, and medical surveillance of the institute to prevent further transmission.
Source: BEACON - View Full Report
Doctors have advised precautions like frequent hand washing, sneezing and coughing in elbow and wearing a mask whenever possible to avoid spreading and getting these infections. Dubai: As temperatures begin to drop in the UAE, doctors are warning residents to brace for more than just the common flu. Hospitals and clinics are reporting an uptick in seasonal illnesses, from respiratory infections and gastroenteritis to allergies triggered by changing weather conditions. "During seasonal transitions in the UAE, especially from summer to winter and vice versa, residents often experience a spike in various illnesses like flu and gastroenteritis due to abrupt temperature changes, humidity fluctuations and increased indoor gatherings," said Dr Zara Ahmed, specialist emergency medicine at RAK Hosp...
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View WHO Resources →Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-03
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