Diarrhoea and vomiting: protect fluids and reduce infection spread

Preventing dehydration is central to managing diarrhoea and vomiting. NHS advice includes frequent sips when nauseated and eating when able; juice and fizzy drinks can worsen diarrhoea.

Soap-and-water handwashing, surface cleaning and avoiding food preparation for others reduce spread. Continue a baby's usual milk feeds; do not dilute formula yourself.

Inability to retain fluids or bloody diarrhoea needs urgent advice. Vomiting blood, sudden severe abdominal pain or confusion requires emergency care. Children have different medicine restrictions: do not use an adult anti-diarrhoeal treatment for them without professional advice.