Health Library

Articles In This Section

• Yersiniosis

  Yersiniosis is an uncommon infection caused by the consumption of undercooked meat products, unpasteurized milk, or water contaminated by the bacteria.

• Typhoid Fever

  While typhoid fever isn't common in the U.S., it can be a health threat elsewhere. Learn about this illness and how to prevent it.

• Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)

  Gastroenteritis is an infection that causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and belly cramps. It's often called the stomach flu, and is a common illness.

• Shigella Infections (Shigellosis)

  Shigella are bacteria that can infect the digestive tract and cause a wide range of symptoms, from diarrhea, cramping, vomiting, and nausea, to more serious problems and illnesses.

• Salmonella Infections

  Salmonella infections can cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, belly cramps, fever, and headache.

• Rotavirus

  Rotavirus infection affects most kids and is one of the most common causes of diarrhea. A vaccine to prevent it is now recommended for all kids.

• Pinworm Infections

  Pinworm is an intestinal infection caused by tiny parasitic worms. But pinworms don't cause any harm (just itching), and it won't take long to get rid of them.

• Norovirus

  Norovirus is a virus that causes diarrhea and vomiting. Most norovirus infections get better on their own with home care.

• Helicobacter pylori

  H. pylori bacteria can cause digestive illnesses, including gastritis and peptic ulcer disease.

• Giardiasis

  Giardiasis, a top cause of diarrhea, is an intestinal illness caused by a tiny parasite. Infections pass easily from person to person.

• Food Poisoning

  Sometimes, germs can get into food and cause food poisoning. Find out what to do if your child gets food poisoning - and how to prevent it.

• Dengue Fever

  You're not at risk of this illness in the U.S., but if you live in or are traveling to a tropical country it's wise to take precautions against this virus.

• Cholera

  While cholera isn't common in the U.S., it can be a health threat elsewhere. Learn about cholera and how to prevent it.

• Campylobacter Infections

  These bacterial infections can cause diarrhea, cramping, belly pain, and fever. Good hand-washing and food safety habits can help prevent them.

• Ascariasis

  Ascariasis is an intestinal infection that occurs when the eggs of a parasitic roundworm are ingested. Read about signs and symptoms, treatment, and tips for prevention.

• Appendicitis In Kids and Teens

  Appendicitis requires immediate medical attention, so it's important to know its symptoms. The earlier it's caught, the easier it is to treat.

• Fighting Germs

  Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa can cause disease. Here's how to help protect your family from germs.

• Tapeworm

  Tapeworms are usually more upsetting to think about than to deal with. Tapeworm infections are rare in the United States, and they're usually easy to treat.

• Stomachaches

  Kids can have stomach pain for lots of reasons - not all of them related to the digestive system. Here are some clues about what could be going on.

• Diarrhea

  Most kids battle diarrhea from time to time, so it's important to know what to do to relieve and even prevent it.