Viral gastroenteritis is most likely to occur after consuming contaminated food or water. A person with one of the viruses that cause gastroenteritis may also infect you if they share utensils, towels, or food with you. Many viruses are capable of triggering gastroenteritis, primarily norovirus, and rotavirus. Children and adults are both susceptible to noroviruses, the leading cause of foodborne illness worldwide. Family and community members can be affected by norovirus infections. Concentrated spaces are the most likely places for it to spread. You usually contract the virus by drinking contaminated water or eating contaminated food. It can also be spread between people who are close to each other or who share food. Norovirus can also be contracted by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your mouth. In children worldwide, rotavirus is the leading cause of viral gastroenteritis, which can be transmitted by putting contaminated fingers or objects into their mouths. In addition, contaminated food can spread the disease. Among infants and young children, the infection is the most severe. Rotavirus can infect adults without causing symptoms, but they can still spread the disease. Nursing homes are particularly at risk because adults with the virus can unknowingly spread the virus to others. In certain countries, including the United States, a vaccine against viral gastroenteritis is available. Patients seeking a gastroenteritis treatment specialist in New York, NYC, can find one at Digestive Disease Care. Call us or book an online appointment. We have convenient locations to serve you in Jamaica NY, Melville NY, New Hyde Park NY, Forest Hills NY, Jericho NY, Mineola NY, Lake Success NY, Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Massapequa NY and BEYOND.