Hospitals sees increase in Gastroenteritis cases

Dr. Shivon Belle Jarvis, Head of the Pediatrician Department

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By Aabigayle McIntosh

The Sir Lester Bird Medical Center has noted a rise in the number of families seeking treatment for children with gastroenteritis (GE).

Dr. Shivon Belle Jarvis, Head of the Pediatrician Department, is offering advice on home treatment for children. She underscores the significance of handwashing and suggests specific fluids for children experiencing frequent bowel movements and vomiting.

“We want to also encourage parents that when children have diarrhea, they should not attend school as they put other children at risk. In terms of fluids that can be used to prevent dehydration, we recommend Pedialyte or Oral rehydration salt which comes in a small package and parents are advised to read very carefully before mixing,” she said.

It is advisable to administer these fluids in small amounts initially, especially if the child is experiencing frequent vomiting or bowel movements. In the case of persistent vomiting, children should be allowed to rest for four to six hours before considering further attempts.

“If the vomiting persists despite this rest and upon resuming trial it is recommended that you seek medical attention,” Belle Jarvis added.

Signs of dehydration in children include crying with few or no tears, sunken eyes, a dry mouth or cracked lips, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and appearing very sleepy or less alert.

The medical practitioner emphasized that these symptoms typically persist for 3 to 7 days, and if they extend beyond that timeframe, seeking medical attention is necessary.