Outburst of Gastroenteritis cases in Saint Lucia

Castries, Saint Lucia: The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs noted an increase in the number of individuals presenting at healthcare facilities with symptoms of gastroenteritis during its processes of disease surveillance.

Medical Surveillance Officer Dr Dana Gomez disclosed in a Friday statement that the Ministry has recorded a fourteen per cent (14%) case increase compared to the previous week.

She further stated that the sickness has impacted specifically children.

It is to be noted that the Ministry has announced an alert to the people of the Federation due to this disease. They have also identified some of the symptoms, prevention and treatment for the people as this disease is rising rapidly.

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines. Several different viruses can cause the ‘Stomach flu’, which is highly contagious and extremely common.

It is to be added in the remarks of the Ministry of Health that this disease results in irritation and soreness of the stomach and intestines.

Further, it may cause vomiting and diarrhoea, but these can also be prevented. As gastro is lurking around again, some of the prevention and treatment options are written below.

– One should wash their hands often

– The person needs to stay at home in case of sickness or if they find any symptoms related to this gastroenteritis

– Drink plenty/ enough of fluids

– Most importantly, one should contact or visit the nearest healthcare facility if any symptoms persist

Symptoms of Gastroenteritis

– Diarrhoea

– Vomiting

– Nausea

– Stomach discomfort

– Muscle aches

– Fever

– Headache

As per the investigations, it was found that symptoms began to occur suddenly and lasted between 5 and 7 days in the affected individuals.

Additionally, this disease also affected people in July as well. During that phase, the bulk of those afflicted were adults who sought medical assistance primarily at the emergency departments of both the St Jude Hospital and OKEU.