Diarrhoea and vomiting is common in young children. Also known as a stomach or tummy bug, it's usually caused by an infection.
Most babies and toddlers who have diarrhoea and vomiting don't need treatment and you can safely look after them at home.
However, it's important to look out for signs of dehydration.
Babies and toddlers can become dehydrated more quickly than older children when they have diarrhoea and vomiting. If dehydration becomes severe it can be dangerous, particularly in young babies.
It's also important to be careful with hygiene while your child is ill to stop diarrhoea and vomiting spreading.
Looking after a baby or toddler with diarrhoea and vomiting
When to seek medical help urgently
How to rehydrate your child with ORS solution
Caring for your child once they're rehydrated
How to stop diarrhoea and vomiting spreading
If you are worried about your child, you can speak to your GP, health visitor or pharmacist, or call NHS 111 for advice.
Vomiting usually lasts for 1-2 days, while diarrhoea lasts for about 5-7 days. If your child's symptoms last longer than this, or if they are showing signs of dehydration, speak to your GP.
Your child may be dehydrated if they have:
See other signs of dehydration.
Get medical advice urgently if your baby or toddler:
See other signs of serious illness in young children.
If your baby becomes dehydrated, they will need to be rehydrated with oral rehydration salt (ORS) solution, which is available from your pharmacist or GP. They will explain how to use it.
The ORS solution helps replace the water and salts lost from your child's body because of the diarrhoea and vomiting.
To rehydrate your baby or toddler, you need to offer them small amounts of ORS solution frequently over a period of about four hours.
If your child is breastfed, keep offering them breastfeeds as well. If your child isn't breastfed, don't offer them any other drinks apart from the ORS solution unless a health professional suggests it.
Don't offer your child any food while they are having the ORS solution.
If your baby or toddler keeps vomiting the solution back up or won't drink it, speak to your GP.
Don't give your child anti-diarrhoea drugs unless advised to by a health professional.
Once your child is rehydrated, they can start to eat solid food again. Offer them plenty of their usual drinks, including milk feeds, but avoid fruit juice or fizzy drinks.
If your child has more episodes of diarrhoea you may be advised to give them some ORS solution after each bout.