Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines, typically causing vomiting, diarrhoea and cramps, and the classic presentation of foodborne illness. Major causes include pathogens ingested via contaminated foods and water, among them species of Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter and Vibrio, Escherichia coli, norovirus and rotaviruses, usually transmitted via the faecal-oral route. Prevention centres on the familiar controls: thorough cooking, avoiding cross-contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods, safe water, hand hygiene and excluding ill food handlers from work until they are clear.