Gastroenteritis in ward at Inverell Hospital
8 October 2009
Hunter New England Health is asking people to temporarily put off visiting friends and relatives in the medical ward at Inverell Hospital until further notice, due to an outbreak of gastroenteritis among patients.
A number of patients have contracted gastroenteritis and strict infection control measures have been put in place in the ward to minimise the chances of further spread throughout the hospital and into the community.
The West Wing ward has been closed to new patients and will remain so until 48 hours after the last infected patient shows signs of recovery.
McIntyre Cluster General Manager Maree Bacigalupo said there is a high level of gastroenteritis in the community at the moment. Some other health facilities throughout the Area have also been affected by the seasonal outbreak.
“Outbreaks can occur throughout the year but cases tend to rise during winter and early spring. This year the peak seems to be later with more cases being recorded in spring,” Ms Bacigalupo said.
“Gastroenteritis is highly infectious and is spread through direct contact with an infected person and indirect contact via contaminated surfaces.
“It may also be spread by the airborne route. We are asking visitors to delay their visit to reduce the chances of further spread.
"Symptoms of gastroenteritis may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain, headache, and muscle aches.”
Symptoms of gastroenteritis usually last between one and three days, but sometimes longer.
“The most effective way of avoiding gastroenteritis is washing your hands thoroughly with soap and running water before handling and eating food. You should also always wash your hands after using the toilet,” Ms Bacigalupo said.
Outbreaks of gastroenteritis are also more common within families and group settings including nursing homes, hospitals, childcare centres and schools.
People who may have gastroenteritis should delay visiting family and friends are in hospital or aged care homes so that the virus is not spread to patients and staff.
Children should also not attend childcare or school while symptomatic with gastroenteritis and should only return after being symptom-free for 48 hours.
(HNE: 2018)
Contact: Carisa Green
Phone: (02) 6767 7135 or 0428 106 183