Drinking water can also be contaminated by sewage and be a source of spread of these viruses. Viral gastroenteritis affects people in all parts of the world. Each virus has its own seasonal activity. Viral gastroenteritis outbreaks can occur in institutional settings, such as schools, child care facilities, and nursing homes, and can occur in other group settings, such as banquet halls, cruise ships, dormitories, and campgrounds. Anyone can get it.
Viral gastroenteritis occurs in people of all ages and backgrounds.
However, some viruses tend to cause diarrheal disease primarily among people in specific age groups. Rotavirus infection is the most common cause of diarrhea in infants and young children under 5 years old. Adenoviruses and astroviruses cause diarrhea mostly in young children, but older children and adults can also be affected. Norwalk and Norwalk-like viruses are more likely to cause diarrhea in older children and adults. Generally, viral gastroenteritis is diagnosed by a physician on the basis of the symptoms and medical examination of the patient.