Hospital hit with gastro

Several patients and staff at Woy Woy Hospital were affected by gastroenteritis over a number of days in October.

Director of Nursing at the hospital, Ms Linda Davidson, said the hospital was working with Central Coast Health's infection control team and the public health unit to manage the illness and prevent its spread.

The illness was contained to one area of the hospital and access to the affected ward was restricted to prevent further spread.

"Gastroenteritis outbreaks occur from time to time in communities," said Ms Davidson.

"They have a tendency to occur in winter but can occur at other times of the year as well.

"The illness is caused by a virus and is most often transmitted via direct contact with an infected person.

"The most common symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, lack of appetite and sometimes fever.

"There are some simple things people can do to reduce their chance of getting gastro, including washing hands before handling food and before eating, and washing hands after toilet use.

"People who have gastro they should stay home until symptoms have stopped.

"People with gastro should rest and increase the amounts of fluids they drink.

"In some cases medication and hospitalisation may be required.

"Infants, young children and the elderly should seek medical attention," she said.

For more information about gastroenteritis, she suggested people talk to their general practitioner, contact the Central Coast Public Health Unit on 4349 4845 during business hours or see the NSW Health Departments website (www.health.nsw.gov.au) and select Common Health Topics.

Press release, October 22