What causes acute gastroenteritis?

AGE is most often caused by viral infections, most commonly norovirus and rotavirus. Other infectious causes, like bacterial or parasitic infections, are less common but can be more severe. AGE spreads from person to person, or through contaminated water or food. ^[1] Other less common causes include chemical ingestion and drug-induced AGE. Medications such as antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs can cause AGE. Accidental ingestion of chemicals like lead, certain types of mushrooms, or contaminated seafood can also cause AGE. ^[2]