Gastrointestinal infections are among the most common infections encountered during the summer months. To mitigate this risk, it is essential to ensure the hygiene of food, beverages, and swimming pools.

Viruses and bacteria do not leave us alone during the summer months either... Gastrointestinal infections have been frequently encountered recently. Prof. Dr. Özlem ALICI, an Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology Specialist, explained what needs to be known about these infections as follows:

Why Are Infections Increasing?

The first infection that comes to mind in summer infections is gastrointestinal (stomach and intestinal) infections. Hot and humid environments accelerate the reproduction of microorganisms (especially bacteria). Spoiled and unhygienic food and beverages, dirty hands, and swimming pools also increase the risk of infection.

What Causes Food Poisoning?

Food spoils quickly at high temperatures if not stored properly. The toxins produced by bacteria growing on food cause food poisoning. Foods containing meat, milk, and eggs are particularly prone to bacterial growth. Exposure to pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus aureus is possible.

What Are the Symptoms of Food Poisoning?

Symptoms include nausea and vomiting, sometimes diarrhea, and less commonly abdominal pain and fever. Fatigue is also common.
Dehydration, which is caused by fluid loss or inability to consume enough fluids, can develop into a serious condition.

What Causes Ice Poisoning?

Ice made from unclean water and handled by hand may also contain infectious microorganisms. Adding unreliable ice to beverages can lead to foodborne infections and, consequently, ice poisoning.

Who Is at Risk of Infection?

These infections can occur in any age group. However, children aged 0–5, elderly individuals, and immunocompromised individuals (e.g., cancer and diabetes patients) are the most susceptible groups.

Precautions to Take to Prevent Infection

• Basic hygiene rules should be followed. In particular, hands should be washed frequently with soap.
• Food should be stored in the refrigerator, and cooked food should not be left out for long periods of time. Raw and cooked foods should be stored separately.
• Vegetables and fruits should be washed thoroughly or peeled.
• Food and beverages sold openly and left in the sun should be avoided. Bottled water should be preferred. Ice cubes whose hygiene is uncertain should not be consumed.
• Outdoors, attention should be paid to food, venue, and staff hygiene. Raw, undercooked meat and meat products, cream, mayonnaise-based foods, and salads should be avoided.
• Care should be taken to ensure the pool is hygienic and that no water is swallowed while swimming, and attention should be paid to ear, eye, and skin hygiene.
• Shared towels and cutlery should not be used with infected individuals.

What causes diarrhea?

Cases are increasing due to microbial contamination (spoiled food, dirty water, swimming pools), hot weather, and poor hygiene. Diarrhea is particularly risky for children and the elderly.

What helps with diarrhea?

• Drink plenty of fluids (water, buttermilk, soup).
• Consume fiberless and binding foods such as bananas, rice, and boiled potatoes.
• Avoid dairy products, fatty/fried foods, caffeinated beverages, and raw vegetables/fruits.
• Consuming foods containing probiotic microorganisms is appropriate. Such as homemade yogurt...

Diarrhea Symptoms That Require Seeing a Doctor

• In cases of feverish, bloody, or diarrhea lasting longer than 3 days,
• In cases of severe vomiting, changes in consciousness,
• In cases of dehydration symptoms (dry mouth, lack of urination, weakness), a doctor should be consulted without delay.