Gastro and Infectious Diseases

Please see the following regarding gastroenteritis, and please find additional information at https://www.health.tas.gov.au/publications/viral-gastro-fact-sheet

Public Health Service are aware of gastroenteritis (gastro) outbreaks in the community, including the education sector, and would like to remind educators to please remain vigilant for gastroenteritis and to put in place appropriate measures.

Infectious gastroenteritis (‘gastro’) is a short-term illness caused by infection and inflammation of the digestive system. Symptoms may include diarrhoea (frequent or loose stools), vomiting and abdominal pain. There are many causes of gastroenteritis, with the most common being a viral infection.

Infectious gastroenteritis is spread very easily. It may be spread via vomit and faeces (poo) of an infected person or contaminated objects, food or water.

Infection control recommendations:

• Children or staff who become unwell with vomiting and/or diarrhoea while at childcare or school should go home.
• Children and staff should not return to childcare or school until at least 48 hours after symptoms have resolved.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after any contact with a sick person
• Staff should supervise/ remind children to wash their hands before eating and after using the toilet.

Please follow this link for further information regarding Infectious diseases 
 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1kFUznpDf7jTwsHzP-aogqX0mEVTrQ0IliCs4F8I6MjE/edit