Gastro cases increase
townsvillebulletin. com. au TOWNSVILLE has been hit with a seasonal spike in the number of gastro cases.
Fairfield Central Medical practice principal Dr Michael Clements said for the past few weeks he had treated, on average, five or more sufferers a day.
Dr Clements said it was higher than usual but normal for the Christmas period.
“When school holidays start, we noticed a small increase in the viral gastroenteritis presentations,” he said.
“At this time of year, with leftovers, you have to be more diligent.
“( Residents should) ensure proper food hygiene – we often see some particular bugs on leftover chicken and other products.”
Gastroenteritis sufferers should stay hydrated by drinking small amounts of fluid regularly.
“Use Panadol if you’re feeling unwell and not keeping fluids down,” he said. “( We can) give medications for vomiting if needed.”
Dr Clements said if a patient was very dehydrated or had a high fever, they should contact a GP.
“Most gastroenteritis will settle down within five days by itself,” he said. “If it’s longer than that, it might be time to get a review at the GP.”
Dr Clements said there was no link between gastroninestinal diseases and dam levels, as bacteria were removed in the water treatment process.
Common viral gastroenteritis is not a reportable disease, but statistics are collected on more serious gastroninestinal diseases.
According to Queensland Health statistics, there were 7112 cases of campylobacter last year, compared with the yearly average of 5598.
The number of salmonellosis cases in 2017 was 4098, up slightly on the average of 4035.
There were 646 cases of yersiniosis, compared with the average 437, and 239 reports of shigellosis, nearly double the average 125.
Townsville Hospital emergency department physician Dr Colin Banks said there had been no noticeable increase in the number of gastroenteritis admissions this holiday season.
“The illness can be both viral and bacterial and the best way to avoid infection is to wash hands thoroughly after going to the toilet and before handling food,” he said.
The symptoms of gastroenteritis include vomiting and diarrhoea.”