The Calaveras County Public Health Department has received reports of gastrointestinal illness among local students. Illnesses include vomiting and diarrhea. These are symptoms found with gastrointestinal illness caused by a virus.
“Viral gastrointestinal illness starts rapidly with vomiting and stomach cramps. Some people have diarrhea, fever, headache and body aches as well,” stated Dr. Dean Kelaita, Calaveras County Health Officer. Symptoms of viral gastrointestinal illness usually last for about eight hours but can continue for up to two days. Rest and plenty of fluids are important if someone in your family has these symptoms. If they are not able to keep fluids down you should contact a doctor, clinic or emergency room.
Viral gastrointestinal illness spreads easily from person to person. To prevent the spread of illness at home and in the community the Public Health Department recommends:
· Stay home from work or school if a person is vomiting or has diarrhea
· Stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop
· Wash hands often and thoroughly. Help young children wash their hands, especially after going to the bathroom
· Use a household disinfectant to thoroughly clean any areas where vomiting and diarrhea occur
Call the Public Health Department at 209-754-6460 or visit the website at www.calaveraspublichealth.com for more information.
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