Being down with a bug is almost as common during the holidays as catching a cold or the flu when the season changes. We give you the lowdown on all things gastro and simple ways to prevent it. 

You’ve shut your laptop for the last time this year, the sun’s out and there’s the distinct smell of braai meat and sunscreen in the air. You’re finally beginning to relax and feel festive, but a few hours later, you’re doubled over in the bathroom, wondering if it was the chicken drumsticks, the salad or just bad luck. 

Every year, millions of people worldwide fall victim to gastrointestinal illnesses, with gastroenteritis being one of the most common culprits. In South Africa, the scorching summer months provide the perfect breeding ground for it to spread, with high temperatures and frequent social gatherings increasing the likelihood of food and water contamination. 

Gastroenteritis — often called a ‘stomach bug’ — is an intestinal infection that causes abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and sometimes fever. It’s also referred to as ‘stomach flu, although this is a misnomer, as it targets the gut rather than the respiratory system. 

While unpleasant, gastroenteritis is usually short-lived and harmless, but it can be more serious for infants, older adults, pregnant women or people with HIV/AIDS or weakened immune systems. 

Different types of stomach bugs 

Not all stomach bugs are caused by the same germs. Gastroenteritis can be triggered by viruses, bacteria or parasites. Knowing the difference can help you prevent it and manage symptoms.

Bacterial gastroenteritis 

This type is caused by organisms like E. coli and salmonella, often spread through poor food hygiene and unsafe food handling. Symptoms can be more severe and may require medical treatment.

Parasitic gastroenteritis 

Parasites like Giardia are less common but can cause longer-lasting diarrhoea. It’s often picked up from untreated water or poor hygiene. 

Viral gastroenteritis 

Dr Laylah Fayker explains on her blog, CapeTownMed.com, that the norovirus and rotavirus are most commonly responsible for viral gastroenteritis in South Africa. These are contagious and spread easily via unwashed hands, contaminated food or close contact with an infected person. 

The World Health Organisation estimates that norovirus causes around 685 million cases each year, leading to about 50 000 child deaths —mostly in areas where limited access to clean water and sanitation increases the risk of infection. Rotavirus, which affects mostly children, results in around 25 million clinic visits a year. 

Since there’s no effective treatment for viral gastroenteritis, prevention is the best way of keeping yourself and your family from getting sick. 

And what about food poisoning? 

Food poisoning and gastroenteritis are often confused because their symptoms overlap. Diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or cramps, fever, decreased appetite and dehydration are common to both. 

The key difference is timing: “Food poisoning typically occurs between 12 and 24 hours, whereas gastroenteritis is more persistent and can occur for multiple days and even weeks when not treated in a timely manner,” explains Dr Fayker. 

When children get ill 

Children are especially vulnerable to dehydration from gastroenteritis. “They have a smaller body size and a big fluid loss can have life-threatening consequences,” says Dr Fayker. Infants and toddlers struggle to express their discomfort clearly, refusing to eat or drink, displaying irritation or appearing listless. “If left untreated, gastroenteritis can worsen and may contribute to longer-term gut issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining” 

Dr Fayker advises seeking medical care if you notice any of the following symptoms: 

• Severe dehydration: Dry mouth, dizziness and very little urination.
• Blood in stool or vomit: This shows a possibility of a more serious infection.
• Severe abdominal pain: This is a possible sign of complications like appendicitis or other gastrointestinal conditions.
• Prolonged symptoms: If symptoms last more than a few days or worsen, seek medical help immediately. 

Travel tips to dodge the tummy bug this holiday  

`Traveller’s diarrhoea’ is another gastrointestinal illness people often pick up on holiday when they eat or drink something their body is not used to. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the US estimates that it affects 30% to 70% of international travellers, with higher rates in resource-limited destinations and warmer climates.  

Here are five tips to keep in mind when travelling locally or abroad this season:  

Keep food safe

Store food below 5°C and ensure you store it in a cooler box with ice packs if you’re outdoors. Above 5°C, up to 60°C, is where bacteria multiply rapidly. The CDC recommends refrigerating leftovers within 2 hours of preparation (or 1 hour if the food has been exposed to temperatures above 32°C, like a hot car or picnic). Eat leftovers within 3 days.  

Check your water source

Always opt for bottled water in areas where the tap water may not be safe to drink. Watch out for ice cubes as they might have been made with unsafe tap water, and avoid brushing your teeth with tap water, too.  

Be discerning with street food

Hygiene standards can differ from stall to stall. Opt for food that is made fresh to order in front of you — and if something doesn’t look or smell right, don’t eat it.  

Avoid high-risk foods

Be extra wary of dairy, seafood and leftovers. Pre-cut foods like salads also pose a risk as they could be washed or prepared with contaminated water.  

Wash your hands often and keep sanitiser handy

Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This includes between your fingers and under your nails.  

 Words: Emma Follett-Botha 

Photography: Gallo/Getty Images, Pexels

Also read: Expert safety tips for holiday travel