Warning on increase in gastro outbreaks in childcare
The Victorian State Government have issued a health alert with regards to gastro outbreaks in childcare.
What is the issue?There has been a recent increase in reports of gastroenteritis (‘gastro’) outbreaks in childcare centres in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia.
As COVID-19 restrictions are lifted in Victoria, more outbreaks of gastroenteritis are being reported, with eight outbreaks in childcare centres notified to the Department since the start of November.
Gastroenteritis is highly infectious and is caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites. In each case, infection occurs when the agent is ingested. This usually happens in childcare settings when unwashed hands are placed directly in mouths or touch food or drinks.
Who is at risk?Viral gastroenteritis can affect people of all ages. Those most at risk of complications include the elderly and the very young.
Symptoms and transmissionSymptoms of viral gastroenteritis include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain, headache and muscle aches. They can take up to three days to develop and usually last between one or two days, sometimes longer.
The main complication of gastroenteritis is dehydration, but this can be prevented if the fluid lost in vomit and diarrhoea is replaced.
Gastroenteritis is highly infectious and may spread rapidly. The virus is present in the vomit and faeces of an infected person and can spread either: from close contact with infected persons; contact with contaminated surfaces; or consuming contaminated food or drink. Viruses are often spread from person-to-person, and to objects and food via unwashed hands. .
RecommendationsThe best defence against the spread of these viruses, is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 10 seconds before and after handling and eating food, after using the toilet, changing nappies, or assisting someone who has vomiting or diarrhoea.
Infants or children in childcare or school who develop vomiting or diarrhoea should stay at home for at least 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped, as should staff members and anyone whose work involves handling food or looking after children, the elderly or patients.
Anyone recovering from gastroenteritis should avoid visiting hospitals, childcare centres and aged care facilities to avoid spreading the infection to those most vulnerable. Any person living in a household with someone who has gastroenteritis should refrain from visiting these high-risk facilities until at least 48 hours after the last person in the household has recovered.
Childcare centres are encouraged to reinforce basic hygiene measures, such as regular hand washing (paying particular attention to hand washing after attending to nappy changes), cleaning all hard surfaces and providing education to help prevent the spread of infections. Staff should supervise and assist young children to wash hands properly. Staff should also wear gloves and a mask when cleaning up bodily fluids, including vomit, when symptoms commence at the centre. Disinfect surfaces with a freshly made sodium hypochlorite solution.
If you are concerned about your symptoms consult your doctor for advice.
