KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Health is reminding the public, especially parents of small children, to pay particular attention to their children for signs of gastroenteritis following the persistent rainfall over the island.

Gastroenteritis is a condition that causes irritation and inflammation of the stomach and intestines. An infection may be caused by bacteria or parasite in spoiled food, unclean water or dirty hands.The ministry, in a release this afternoon, advised that medication should not be used to stop the diarrhoea or vomiting, which are symptoms of gastroenteritis. Oral Rehydration Fluid (ORF) should be used to replace the water and special substances that are lost as a result of vomiting and/or diarrhoea.“Continue to give ORF until the child gets better although this treatment will not stop or shorten the course of diarrhoea. Vomiting should stop within two days and the running belly should stop within a week. Continue to give lots of fluids to prevent dehydration.“If a child is breast fed, continue breastfeeding your child frequently. In addition, other fluids such as coconut water, diluted fruit juices as well as plain water can also be given. Do not give sweet drinks,” the ministry instructed.Gastroenteritis can cause death especially in young children less than five years old.