Gastroenteritis is a highly contagious disease. Yet simple hygiene measures can help prevent its onset and spread. One of the most effective is proper hand washing with soap and lukewarm water. When should I seek medical advice? What symptoms should I look out for? How can we protect others? Discover the answers to these questions and other useful information to help you avoid this illness.

Understanding gastroenteritis: symptoms and duration

Gastroenteritis is characterized by several distinctive symptoms. The most common are vomiting and diarrhea, which may be accompanied by abdominal cramps. Nausea and headaches may also be experienced. Loss of appetite and general weakness are also common.

The duration of these symptoms can vary. Generally, they occur over a period of 24 to 72 hours. However, in some cases, particularly when traveling abroad, they can persist for up to 10 days.

It's essential to keep a close eye on the evolution of these symptoms, and to take them seriously to prevent any complications.

Gastroenteritis contagion: how is it transmitted?

Gastroenteritis is transmitted mainly through direct contact with an infected person, or indirectly via objects or surfaces contaminated by the virus or bacteria in question. The main virus responsible for gastroenteritis can survive for several hours on objects such as doorknobs or toys.

The virus is excreted in the stool of the sick person. It can therefore end up on the hands if they are not properly washed after using the toilet. Simple gestures such as touching the face, eating or touching another person can then lead to contamination.

Contamination can also occur through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. This can happen when contaminated hands prepare meals, or when eating raw or poorly washed food.

The importance of hand washing in preventing gastroenteritis

Hand washing plays an essential role in preventing gastroenteritis. It limits the spread of the virus present on the hands, resulting from contact with an infected person or contaminated object. 80% of germs are transmitted by the hands, hence the importance of this hygienic gesture.

• Regular hand washing with warm, soapy water is recommended, especially before eating, before touching your face, after using the toilet and after touching potentially contaminated objects.

• Rubbing hands, fingers and nails for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water can effectively eliminate germs.

• It's also crucial to dry hands thoroughly after washing, as germs spread more easily on damp skin.

These measures help reduce the risk of transmitting not only the gastroenteritis virus, but also other hand-borne illnesses. It's important to note that hydroalcoholic gels do not protect against the majority of agents that cause gastroenteritis.

Hand-washing techniques: how to wash your hands properly?

There are a few key steps to effective handwashing.

1. Start by wetting your hands with warm water.

2. Apply enough soap to create a rich lather.

3. Rub your hands vigorously for about 20 seconds. Don't forget the often neglected areas: fingers, between the fingers, nails and wrists.

4. Rinse your hands thoroughly under running water.

5. Dry your hands with a clean towel or hand dryer.

Gastro and surfaces: how long do microbes stay on objects?

Gastroenteric viruses and bacteria vary in how long they remain on objects. Rotavirus, the most common, can survive for over 15 days on surfaces. Frequently touched surfaces, such as door handles or toys, can therefore become transmission vectors. Regular cleaning and disinfection of these surfaces is crucial to limit the spread of the virus. Soap- or bleach-based products can be used for disinfection.

Protecting those around you: How can you avoid transmitting gastroenteritis?

When suffering from gastroenteritis, it's essential to take steps to avoid spreading the infection to those around you. Hand hygiene remains the most effective means of prevention. Wash your hands regularly with warm, soapy water, especially before and after preparing meals, before eating, and after each trip to the toilet. 

Avoiding direct contact with others, such as shaking hands or kissing, is also recommended.

• Cleaning surfaces: Frequently touched objects (door handles, toys, remote controls) should be cleaned and disinfected regularly.

• Kitchen: If you're preparing meals, be sure to wash your hands before and after, and to clean utensils and work surfaces thoroughly.

• Bathroom: In the event of vomiting or diarrhea, be sure to clean the toilet after each use, including the door handle and flush.

These measures are particularly important when living with people at risk of complications from gastroenteritis, such as young children or the elderly.

Gastroenteritis in adults and children: When should you seek medical attention?

When faced with gastroenteritis, consulting a health professional is recommended if symptoms persist. For adults, diarrhea lasting more than 3 days without improvement may require a medical visit. In the case of children, immediate consultation is recommended if signs of dehydration such as dry lips, absence of tears when crying, unusual sleepiness or a reduced number of micturitions (urination) appear.

Treating gastroenteritis: what are the solutions?

There are several ways to treat gastroenteritis. Hydration is essential to compensate for fluid loss due to diarrhea and vomiting. Small quantities of water and oral rehydration solutions, available from pharmacies, should be drunk regularly.

Medication can also be used to relieve symptoms. Some help slow down diarrhea, while others help reduce nausea and vomiting. Ask your pharmacist which medications to use according to your symptoms.

Finally, eating a light, easily digestible diet can help heal the digestive tract.

In all cases, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice based on your individual state of health and symptoms.