Gastroenteritis in Children

Testing for E. coli 0157:H7:

We are currently testing children for E. coli 0157:H7, an uncommon type of bacteria also known as Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). If the test is positive, it means your child has an E. coli 0157:H7 infection, which can sometimes lead to serious complications. 

Overview:

Your child has gastroenteritis an infection in the intestinal tract caused by bacteria or a virus, leading to diarrhea. Diarrhea is defined as passing loose, watery stools three or more times a day. Other symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Watery or Bloody stools
• Fatigue

Diagnosis and Treatment:

• Diagnosed through stool samples.
• Most infections resolve within 5-10 days without antibiotics.
• Avoid antidiarrheal medicines unless advised by the healthcare provider.
• Ensure your child stays hydrated with water or children's electrolyte solutions. 

Preventing Spread:

• If the test is positive, please keep your child out of daycare, school, and large gatherings until you have 2 negative tests.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer. 
• Clean the toilet after each use
• Bath kids separately and bleach tub between baths.
• Wash hands before and after preparing food and avoid cross-contamination with raw foods.
• Use a food thermometer to ensure meats are cooked to safe temperatures.
• Use disposable gloves for diaper changes, and wash hands thoroughly after each diaper change. 
• Wash or peel fruits and vegetables before eating
• Avoid swimming in all sources of water and water activities. (Pools, Lakes, Bounce houses, water Slides, Rivers, etc.)

When to Seek Medical Advice:

• Severe or persistent belly pain.
• Repeated vomiting or severe diarrhea lasting over 24 hours
• Blood in vomit or stool 
• Signs of dehydration. (e.g., dark urine, no tears, dry mouth, 3 or less wet diapers within 24 hrs.)
• Extreme drowsiness, confusion, or seizures
• Fever in infants and toddlers. 

If your test comes back positive:

• Give lots of fluids (Pedialyte). 
• Remove all forms of dairy from diet. (including formula)
• If he/she doesn't improve in 2 days, start using a soy based formula for nutrition.
• Provide multiple types of probiotics. (Sauerkraut, sauerkraut juice, apple cider vinegar, probiotic supplement).
• For infants dilute the sauerkraut juice and apple cider vinegar.
• If number of wet diapers decrease to 3 or less per day, if he/she seems lethargic, develops bloody stools, and unusual rash, or you have other concerns, follow up with your Provider.
• Avoid swimming in all sources of water/water activities. (Bounce houses, Water, Pools, Lakes, etc.)
• Keep your child out of daycare, school, and large gatherings until you have 2 negative tests.
• Bath kids separately and bleach tub between baths. 

Home Care Tips:

• Follow all healthcare provider instructions
• Avoid giving over-the-counter diarrhea medicines unless prescribed.
• Use acetaminophen for pain and fever, but avoid ibuprofen and aspirin due to the risk of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS).
• Prevent dehydration with oral rehydration solutions available at pharmacies.

Contact Information:

For any concerns or emergencies, contact your healthcare provider or dial 911 if immediate medical attention is required.

Disclaimer:

This information is not a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.