Pediatricians have recently noted a dramatic increase in the number of incidences of salmonellosis in children, which can cause serious diarrhea and dehydration. Some of the cases became even worse than expected. Doctors suggest that parents should pay attention to the personal hygiene of themselves and their children.

The number of child gastroenteritis cases is on the rise around the island.

While the majority of cases are caused by salmonella, doctors have also diagnosed a number of cases arising from rotavirus and norovirus.

Last week, a one-year old girl suffered severe dehydration after experiencing diarrhea 17 times in one day.

Another one-year old girl with a severely swollen abdomen had to undergo emergency surgery after being diagnosed with intestinal perforations.

Both cases were attributed to salmonella poisoning. According to doctors, salmonella poisoning occurs most frequently in the summer.

While the number of infections has not risen this year, experts believe that the severity of cases has increased due to unstable weather conditions this fall.

Doctors say that children should avoid eating raw eggs, and that infants should be breastfed whenever possible.

Furthermore, parents should wash their hands before preparing baby formula and after touching pets.