Viral Gastroenteritis (GIT) Flashcards
What is the epidemiological significance of rotavirus and noroviruses?
Rotavirus causes 600,000 children’s deaths/year
Norovirus is an important cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks.
What does norovirus cause, and why can it cause outbreaks so easily?
Norovirus causes winter vomiting disease - a self-limiting diarrhoeal illness.
Norovirus is very contagious, spreading from person to person or through contaminated water/food.
Is there a specific treatment or vaccine for norovirus?
No specific treatment or vaccine.
Symptom management.
What is the most common cause of severe diarrhoea in children?
Rotavirus - particularly in developing countries.
Is there a specific treatment or vaccine for norovirus?
Vaccine for rotavirus exists.
Besides rotavirus and norovirus - what are two other viruses that cause gastroenteritis?
Astrovirus
Adenovirus
What is the preferred diagnostic procedure for viral gastroenteritis?
PCR assays of stool or vomit are preferred.
What is the treatment recommended for viral gastroenteritis?
Viral gastroenteritis is usually self-limiting - there are no specific treatments available so treatment is supportive.
This includes fluid+electrolyte replenishment, anti-pyretics and non-opioid analgesics for pain.
What type of medicines should be avoided in treating viral gastroenteritis?
Anti-emetics and anti-diarrhoeal agents.
