Skip to main content
mini mode

gastroenteritis (gastro)

by catherine alderstein

exclusion period

exclude until 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea

symptoms

  • vomiting
  • diarrhoea (watery or loose stools)
  • stomach cramps
  • nausea
  • mild fever
  • loss of appetite

when can your child return to childcare?

the child can return to childcare 48 hours after their last vomit or loose bowel motion, and they are well enough to participate in normal activities.

do siblings or contacts need to stay home?

contacts are not excluded unless they develop symptoms

treatment notes for parents

keep the child hydrated with small sips of water or oral rehydration solution (e.g. Hydralyte). avoid fruit juice and sugary drinks. see a GP if the child is under 6 months, shows signs of dehydration, or symptoms last more than 48 hours.

view all exclusion periods

the complete illness-by-illness guide

this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service.