Gastrointestinal infections are diseases of the stomach and intestines. Examples include gastroenteritis or salmonella. You can contract these diseases through contaminated food, water, or contact with a sick person. Symptoms often include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some gastrointestinal infections can be serious, especially for young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems. The norovirus is the most common cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks.
Stomach flu (such as the norovirus)
Gastroenteritis is an illness caused by a virus or bacterium. Many people catch gastroenteritis through contaminated food or drink, or through contact with someone who is sick. Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and sometimes fever. The symptoms usually last a few days. It is important to stay well hydrated to prevent dehydration. Gastroenteritis is unpleasant but usually clears up on its own.
For more information, please visit:
- ‘Thuisarts’ page on stomach flu:https://www.thuisarts.nl/buikgriep
- RIVM page on the norovirus:https://www.rivm.nl/norovirus
What does Public Health Bonaire do?
- Public Health Bonaire helps prevent the spread of gastrointestinal infections. We provide advice to residents, schools, (cruise) ships, healthcare institutions, and healthcare providers. This includes, for example, advice on hygiene.
- Public Health Bonaire conducts research into gastrointestinal infections. Public Health Bonaire monitors the frequency of gastrointestinal infections on the island. We collect data from laboratories (such as positive test results) and from general practitioners' practices. Public Health Bonaire uses this to determine if more people are becoming ill than normal, so that we can take timely action.
