What are the symptoms?

Diarrhoea (which usually means a loose watery stool at least three times in a 24hour period), perhaps with vomiting, that has lasted for less than 7 days.

What are the causes of D&V?

In children the usual cause is a virus called a Rotavirus. In the future we hope a vaccine will be available to protect your child.

What are the dangers of D&V?

Although D&V is unpleasant, the only danger with severe D&V is dehydration. Your child will not be harmed by missing a few days food but could be harmed if he/she cannot replace vital water lost in severe D&V.

What is the best way to treat D&V?

• continue your childs usual feed's (breast feeding, bottle feeding or solid foods). There is no evidence that diluting feeds or witholding feeds helps.
• offer small feeds frequently.
• give more feeds than usual, offer more fluids in the form of an oral rehydration therapy (ORT) fluid. Children who receive ORT have a greater weight gain and shorter duration of diarrhoea. ORT fluids have a special mixture of water, salts and sugars which get into the body quickly and reduce the risks of serious dehydation in D&V. You can get more advice about ORT from your pharmacist
• Do not give an anti diarrhoeal medication. They do not work well in children, and may make your child more ill.

If you remain concerned about your baby or child's health please ask your health visitor or doctor for further advice.

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