Update about gastroenteritis outbreak at Whangarei Hospital

The number of patients affected by a small gastroenteritis outbreak at Whangarei Hospital has increased from three to seven.   These patients remain in isolation within Ward 14.  No staff are affected by the illness at this time.

The features of the illness are those of norovirus infection (predominantly vomiting and diarrhoea).  The hospital expects to receive laboratory results which will confirm this later this week.

Gloria Johnson, Northland DHB's chief medical advisor said the increase of affected patients, from three to seven, is not unexpected as the virus has an incubation period of up to 50 hours.

"Strict infection control measures within the ward remain in place to reduce the risk for other patients within the hospital."

The district health board is requesting that people in the community who are experiencing any symptoms of nausea or diarrhoea are asked not to visit family or friends in hospital, until they have been symptom-free for at least 48 hours 

About Norovirus

• Norovirus is a very common cause of gastroenteritis in the community.

• The most usual ways of catching it are contact with infected people, eating contaminated food (especially shellfish) or drinking untreated water.

• Symptoms are predominantly vomiting and diarrhoea which usually last approximately 48 hours.

• Those with symptoms should remain at home until at least 48 hours symptom free and avoid preparing food for others.  In a family setting it is important for those with symptoms to avoid contact with the elderly and the young.

• If symptoms are severe or prolonged, dehydration may occur. The illness is usually self-limiting but may be worse in the young and the elderly. Those severely affected should consult a doctor.

• The most important way of preventing spread is thorough hand hygiene (washing hands for 20 seconds using soap and running water and drying for 20 seconds) after going to the toilet and before preparing food.

Ends

For more information contact:

Fleur King, Public Relations Manager
Northland District Health Board
Phone: 09-470 0000 ext 3315

 Viral Gastroenteritis Information Sheet 96.87 Kb