As gastroenteritis is very infectious, it is important to take steps to prevent it from spreading to other people.
Controlling the infection
To prevent the spread of infection:
- Wash your hands thoroughly after going to the toilet and before eating or preparing food.
- Clean the toilet, including the seat and handle, with disinfectant after each bout of vomiting or diarrhoea.
- Don't share towels, flannels, cutlery and utensils with other household members.
- Don't return to work until 48 hours have passed since your last bout of vomiting or diarrhoea.
Food hygiene
Practising good food hygiene will help you avoid getting gastroenteritis from food poisoning. You should:
- Regularly wash your hands, surfaces and utensils with hot, soapy water.
- Never store raw and cooked foods together.
- Make sure that food is properly refrigerated.
- Always cook your food thoroughly.
- Never eat food that is past its sell by date.
Read more information and advice about preventing food poisoning.
Traveller's diarrhoea
If you are travelling in a country where the standards of public hygiene are low and there is a risk of water contamination, such as in some African or Asian countries, avoid the following food and drink:
- tap water
- fruit juices (if sold by a street vendor)
- ice cream or ice cubes
- shellfish
- eggs
- salads
- raw or undercooked meat
- peeled fruit
- mayonnaise
- sauces
Food and drink that is usually safe includes:
- sealed bottled water produced by a recognised international manufacturer
- cooked food, such as soup or a stir-fry
- canned food or food in sealed packs
- fresh bread
- unpeeled fruit
- tea or coffee
- alcohol
Read more about preventing traveller's diarrhoea.
Before travelling, ensure you have the travel vaccinations recommended for the country you are visiting.
