Final answer:
Gastroenteritis is a common illness among children worldwide, characterized by symptoms such as vomiting, severe diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Viral infections, particularly rotavirus, norovirus, and astrovirus, are the leading cause of severe acute gastroenteritis in children. Treatment includes supportive rehydration and electrolyte replacement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gastroenteritis, also known as infectious diarrhea, is a common illness among children worldwide. It is characterized by symptoms such as vomiting, severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, lack of energy, and dehydration. Among children, the most common cause of severe acute gastroenteritis is viral infections, particularly rotavirus, norovirus, and astrovirus. These viruses are transmitted through contaminated food or water and can be diagnosed by analyzing stool samples. Treatment involves supportive rehydration and electrolyte replacement.