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Gastroenteritis at Muswellbrook Hospital
Hunter New England Health is asking people to temporarily put off visiting patients at Muswellbrook Hospital following an outbreak of contagious gastroenteritis among patients and staff in the ward on the first floor.
Strict infection control measures have been put in place, including the isolation of a number of rooms within the ward to minimise the chances of further spreading the condition throughout the hospital and into the community.
The ward will remain isolated for 48 hours after the last patient shows signs of recovery.
Nursing and Midwifery Manager at Muswellbrook District Health Service, Wendy Hordern said it is important the community put off visiting the ward, to stop the virus from spreading further.
“The gastroenteritis cases have been confined to the main ward on the first floor and the Emergency Department has been isolated from this area. People requiring emergency services should continue to the Emergency Department for medical treatment,” Ms Hordern said.
Contagious gastroenteritis is highly infectious and is spread through direct contact with an infected person and indirect contact via contaminated surfaces.
“There are a number of gastroenteritis cases in the community at the moment, symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain, headache and muscle aches,” she said.
Gastroenteritis outbreaks occur throughout the year, people who have contracted gastroenteritis should rest and increase the amount of fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
“The most effective way to avoid contagious gastroenteritis is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and running water before handling and eating food, and always wash your hands after using the toilet. Dry your hands well after washing,” Ms Hordern said.
Contact: Kylie Dawson
Phone: (02) 6767 7136
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