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Health Service

Vassar College

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis (nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea) is usually caused by a virus and resolves in 2-5 days. It often starts suddenly. During this time the stomach and intestine may not be able to digest and process food properly. Your digestive tract needs to rest and this is best accomplished by sipping on liquids and small quantities foods with sugars and starches. As symptoms of the illness subside, gradually advance the diet toward a normal diet as tolerated.

Infection control is extremely important as gastrointestinal viruses can spread rapidly in communal settings such as college campuses. If experiencing symptoms of gastroenteritis you should follow these recommendations from the CDC for at least 2 days after symptoms resolve:

  1. Do not prepare or handle food for others
  2. Do not care for others
  3. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
  4. Clean and disinfect common areas and high touch surfaces using a bleach solution
  5. Wash laundry or other soiled fabrics using detergent and high heat

Dietary recommendations for vomiting and diarrhea

  • In the first 12 to 24 hours, sip clear liquids only. Consuming small amounts frequently is preferred.
  • Clear liquids include: Gatorade, herbal teas, popsicles, bullion, broth, jello, water or ice chips, caffeine-free carbonated beverages (ex. ginger ale and 7-up), apple juice.
  • In the next 12 to 24 hours, add frequent small amounts of bland foods such as toast, crackers, rice, soup (not creamed), pretzels, bananas, applesauce, white potato (no butter or sour cream), noodles.
  • After 2 to 3 days, if you continue to improve, you may add more foods. Do not rush back to a full, regular diet. Avoid the following for several days: milk products, raw fruits and vegetables, spicy foods or fatty foods, alcohol, caffeine, nicotine. Note: If vomiting or diarrhea reoccurs, go back one stage and advance more slowly.
  • Over-the-counter medications that may help include Pepto Bismol, Kaopectate, and Immodium. Be sure to follow the label directions. Some of these medications are available in the Health Service clinic.
  • When to seek medical help:
    • Fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit
    • Severe abdominal pain
    • Faintness
    • Bloody bowel movements
    • Inability to keep fluids down for greater than 12 hours