Renown Children’s Hospital pediatric experts are alerting parents and caregivers to an increase in gastrointestinal (GI) illness among children in several Reno-area schools. While most cases are mild and most resolve at home, families should be aware of symptoms, supportive care measures, and when to call their pediatrician and seek medical attention.
“When a child is sick with vomiting or diarrhea, it can be stressful for families, but these illnesses are usually short-lived and manageable at home,” said Kris Deeter, MD, Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital and Chair of Pediatrics, University of Nevada Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med). “The good news is that most children recover quickly from GI illness with rest and hydration. Parents should focus on monitoring symptoms, hand washing and keeping children comfortable at home.”
Children with a gastrointestinal illness may experience:
Symptoms often begin suddenly and may last 1–3 days. The most common cause is a viral infection, which spreads easily in group settings such as schools and childcare centers.
“Prevention is critical in limiting the spread of illness across our community,” said Rahul Mediwala, MD, MBA, CEO, Renown Medical Group. “Consistent and thorough handwashing is one of the simplest and most effective ways families can protect themselves and others. Small daily habits can make a big difference at reducing the spread of illnesses.”
Most children recover with supportive care:
Handwashing remains the most effective way to prevent illness:
Parents should contact a healthcare provider or visit urgent or emergency care if their child experiences:
For non-life-threatening concerns, families may visit a Renown Urgent Care location. Renown Health operates 12 urgent care locations across northern Nevada, including Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Fernley, and Fallon. All locations accept walk-ins and offer a "Book Ahead" feature on the Renown Health website at www.renown.org or MyChart mobile app to reserve a spot online. If symptoms are severe or worsening, seek care at the Renown Children’s Emergency Room open 24 hours a day at 1155 Mill St. in Reno, Nev.
You can now schedule a new patient appointment 24/7 from your computer or cell phone, with no need to call. New appointments are available with Renown Children’s pediatricians.
With Renown’s new online scheduling feature, found on the website at www.renown.org you can book your pediatric primary care appointments without making a phone call to the office. Our dedicated team of pediatricians offer a full range of services—including annual checkups, complete physicals, immunizations, lab work, and referrals to specialists—at multiple locations across northern Nevada.
Renown accepts most insurances including Hometown Health, Senior Care Plus, Anthem Blue Cross, Cigna, United, Medicare and Medicaid.
As the state’s first not-for-profit academic health system, Renown Health is dedicated to transforming lives, strengthening communities, and providing care for all people across Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Together with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Renown Health improves health and lives through exceptional care, comprehensive education and training, and innovative research to ensure a healthier future for Nevada. To join the team, visit renown.org/careers.
