There has been a rise in diarrhoea and vomiting cases in the community over the last three weeks across the South coast, including parts of Hampshire and Southampton areas, according to the Isle of Wight NHS Trust.
Island health experts are reminding visitors to healthcare, hospital, nursing home and residential care facilities of the precautions to be taken:
- Good hygiene is important during outbreaks of diarrhoea and vomiting as it is highly contagious. To prevent becoming infected it is very important to wash your hands with soap and water after you have been around someone who is ill.
- Thorough cleaning of hard surfaces with a bleach solution, paying particular attention to the toilet and toilet area will help to reduce the spread of the virus.
- It is vitally important for those who have been unwell with vomiting and/or diarrhoea recently, especially if they have had these symptoms in the past 48 hours, if possible, to stop visiting patients, relative or friends whether they be in hospital or nursing or residential care homes.
Isle of Wight NHS Trust Infection Control Doctor Emily MacNaughton says:
“If you are visiting healthcare, hospital, nursing or residential care home facilities for any reason please make use of the hand gel and hand washing facilities provided. This protects patients, residents, staff and yourself. We don’t currently have any beds closed at St. Mary’s and that is the way we want to keep it.”
It is vital that anyone who is feeling unwell with vomiting and/or diarrhoea stays at home for at least 48 hours after the symptoms stop to avoid the spread of infection. Keeping hydrated and drinking plenty of fluids is very important, particularly for the elderly and the very young who are most at risk. If the symptoms persist, telephone NHS 111. Further details of symptoms are available on the NHS Choices website www.nhs.uk.
Simon Bryant, Acting Director of Public Health with Isle of Wight Council says:
“Good hand hygiene is important at all times but especially when children, older or vulnerable people – those with long term conditions – are concerned. The simple act of washing your hands on a regular basis – especially after visiting the toilet and before eating food – can do a lot to prevent the spread of this highly infectious disease. It’s in our collective hands to stop this affecting the Island!”
