Urging parents and carers to keep young children at home if they are sick, NSW Health’s executive director of health protection, Dr Richard Broome, says nearly 60 childcare centres across the State reported outbreaks of of the highly infectious virus in October, which is “significantly higher than usual”.
“More than 480 children and 120 staff have been affected. Levels have remained high throughout November,” Dr Broome said.
“The best defence is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 10 seconds before handling and eating food, and always wash your hands after using the toilet, changing nappies or assisting someone who has diarrhoea or vomiting.
“Infants or children in childcare or school who develop vomiting or diarrhoea, should stay at home for at least 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped, as should staff members and anyone whose work involves handling food or looking after children, the elderly or patients.”
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain, headache and muscle aches.
