Brighton Primary Bulletin

Health Centre News  

By Nurse Cecile

Help stop the spread of infections | Gastroenteritis & RSV 

In 2021, cases of viral gastroenteritis (gastro) outbreaks in Victoria are more than double the five-year rolling average in Victoria. The outbreaks have predominantly been in childcare centres.

 

We all need to be vigilant in identifying and taking steps to prevent the spread of gastro and RSV. Hand hygiene is the most effective way to reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria, and it is important for us to continue to emphasise this.

 

Our school encourages good hygiene practices for both staff and students. 

 

Gastroenteritis

Gastro is particularly infectious. It can be spread:

  • through person-to-person contact
  • through the air when a person vomits
  • via contact with contaminated items and surfaces

Symptoms of gastroenteritis

The symptoms of gastroenteritis can include: 

  • Loss of appetite.
  • Bloating.
  • Nausea.
  • Vomiting.
  • Abdominal cramps.
  • Abdominal pain.
  • Diarrhoea.
  • Bloody stools (poo) – in some cases.
  • Pus in the stools – in some cases.
  • Generally feeling unwell – including lethargy and body aches.

Helping Prevent Gastro

 

While alcohol-based hand sanitisers are recommended to prevent transmission of COVID-19, they are not effective for dealing with many of the viruses that cause gastro. 

 

The most effective ways to prevent gastro are:

  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and running water for 20 seconds, especially before preparing or eating meals and after using the toilet
  • Use disposable paper towels instead of cloth towels as bacteria can survive for some time on towels
  • Anyone who develops vomiting or diarrhoea should stay home for 48 hours after their symptoms have passed, as they may still be infectious during this period
  • See your GP for advice and testing if symptoms are severe or persist.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Doctors are warning us to be vigilant around hand hygiene following an increase in patients seeking help for a virus that bears similarities to COVID-19. The virus affects the airways, with symptoms including fever, runny nose, cough, wheeze and shortness of breath. The virus can also cause ear infections. The virus is very contagious and that is why we are seeing an increase in numbers at the moment.

 

Due to similarities with COVID-19, people with symptoms of RSV should be tested. Children with symptoms must stay away from school until they receive a negative COVID-19 result, and they are symptom-free.

 

The best prevention for respiratory illnesses are:

  • Hand hygiene
  • Respiratory etiquette 
  • Social distancing
  • Don’t allow children to share drinks and food

Further information can be found at the following websites:

 

Thank You

Nurse Cecile