Vomiting and diarrhoea

Vomiting and diarrhoea are usually caused by irritation of the digestive system and can occur together or separately. Both can be caused by parasites, viruses or bacteria and it causes the body to lose essential salts and fluids risking dehydration. 

What to do

• 1. Reassure the casualty - if the casualty is vomiting, give them a warm damp cloth to wipe their face and keep reassuring them.
• 2. Get them to sit down – Make sure they are comfortable. When the casualty has stopped vomiting give them a glass of water to sip on or unsweetened fruit juice. Encourage them to take frequent small sips to help replace the fluid they have lost.
• 3. When the casualty is feeling hungry again, advise them to eat foods that are easily digested, such as bread, pasta or potatoes for the first 24 hours.

If you are concerned about a casualty's condition, if they are a child or an older person or if the vomiting and diarrhoea persists, seek medical advice.