The Queen has been hospitalised for gastroenteritis, but though
the condition is common, most people are unlikely to need
hospital treatment. Gastroenteritis sounds scary but it's really
just the umbrella term for when the stomach or large intestine
gets inflamed by an infection. Caused by norovirus or food
poisoning, symptoms are vomiting and diarrhoea and three or more
episodes of either within 24 hours is classed as gastroenteritis
rather than just an upset tummy. Gastroenteritis is particularly
common over the winter when people's immune systems may be
lowered and when we're more likely to be in closer contact with
others in confined spaces, such as on public transport, to get
out of the cold. [Related: Five spices that can boost your
health] Gastroenteritis becomes dangerous when there is the
threat of serious dehydration, so it's important to make sure
you're drinking plenty of fluids and re hydration liquids might
be necessary. More dangerous for children and the elderly,
gastroenteritis can sometimes