Be aware of bacterial gastroenteritis

23 September 2016

Public Health South reminds people to be aware of bacterial gastroenteritis

Public Health South has started to see an increase in bacterial gastroenteritis across the district and is reminding the public of the importance of practicing good hand hygiene.

The main bacteria responsible for the rise in the number of cases are Campylobacter and a type of Salmonella associated with farm animals.

“The numbers are low, less than five cases, and we see this kind of increase every year around this time, around lambing and calving season, and it is important for the public to be aware and to be vigilant,” says Dr Naomi Gough, Southern DHB Medical Officer of Health and Public Health Physician.

A major risk factor for becoming infected with gastroenteritis is close contact with animals, particularly farm animals.

The best way to minimise getting and spreading the illness is good hand hygiene practices, involving washing your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds and drying them thoroughly with a clean towel. This is especially important after working with animals, and before eating or smoking.

If people become ill, they should stay away from work, school and preschool until symptom free for 48 hours to reduce the risk of spreading the infection to other people.
ENDS

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