Private gastroenteritis clinic in London, same-day gastroenterology.

Getting fluids in

This is the whole of the treatment. Someone who stays hydrated recovers at home; someone who does not ends up on a drip.

• Little and often beats large drinks. A few sips every five to ten minutes stays down when a full glass will not. Use a spoon or syringe for a small child.
• Oral rehydration sachets from a pharmacy are better than water alone, because they replace salts and sugar in the proportions that help the gut absorb fluid. They are particularly worth using for children, older people, and anyone losing a lot.
• Keep breastfeeding or bottle feeding a baby as normal, and offer extra fluids between feeds.
• Eat when you feel able. There is no need to starve yourself or stick to dry toast — eat what appeals, in small amounts. Children should go back to their normal diet as soon as they want it.
• You do not need to avoid milk or dairy unless it clearly upsets you.

Stopping it spreading at home

• Wash hands with soap and warm water after using the toilet, before preparing food, and after caring for someone who is unwell. Alcohol hand gel does not kill norovirus — soap and water is essential, not optional.
• Clean toilet seats, flush handles, taps, door handles and surfaces daily with a bleach-based cleaner.
• Do not share towels, flannels, cutlery or cups.
• Wash soiled clothing and bedding separately on a hot wash.
• Avoid swimming pools for two weeks after the diarrhoea has stopped.

Signs of dehydration to watch for

In adults: thirst, dark strong-smelling urine, passing urine less often, dizziness or lightheadedness on standing, tiredness, dry mouth.

In children and babies: fewer wet nappies than usual, no tears when crying, a dry mouth or tongue, sunken eyes, a sunken soft spot on a baby's head, unusual sleepiness or floppiness, cold hands and feet.