Apr. 6 — The Chief Medical Officer is reporting an upsurge in the number of new cases of Viral Gastroenteritis observed over the past week.
The agent, he informed, is Rotavirus — a common cause worldwide. Symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea. Most cases are mild and can be managed at home.
There is no need for alarm, he assured. Most children have had a rotavirus infection by the time they are 5 years old. Rotavirus is one of the most common causes of diarrhea, and severe infection is the leading cause of severe, dehydrating diarrhea in infants and young children.
Severe cases are those with dehydration with symptoms such as weakness, dry lips, dry eyes, and decreased level of consciousness. Severe cases are medical emergencies and must be seen in hospital immediately.
Rotavirus is transmitted from person to person by hands and objects contaminated with feces. Feces may also be carried by houseflies and cockroaches.Prevention requires strict hygiene – hand washing with soap and water; proper disposal of pampers; secure storage of garbage containers.
Treatment is simple and effective with oral rehydration fluids available from health centers and pharmacies.
Caution: The use of the following is likely to cause serious and life-threatening complications – Antibiotics, liquid Gravol, diarrhea medicine such as Kaopectate and Peptobismol, juices, and sodas such as Sprite. These items must be avoided at all costs.
The public can obtain further information and advice from Community Health Centers or private medical practitioners.
