ROADTOWN Tortola BVI, March 23rd, 2012   –  The Ministry of Health and Social Development is reminding residents to practice good personal hygiene including frequent hand washing to safeguard their health and to combat viral gastroenteritis in the Territory.

Data reported to the Health Surveillance Unit from the Emergency Room of the Peebles Hospital states that 57 cases of viral gastroenteritis were recorded in January; 89 cases in February; and 31 cases were reported as of March7, 2012.

Chief Medical Officer in the Ministry of Health and Social Development, Dr. Irad Potter stated, “Viral gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and small and large intestines. It is an infection caused by a variety of viruses that result in vomiting or diarrhea. While viral gastroenteritis is often called the "stomach flu," it is not caused by the influenza viruses.”

In general, the symptoms begin one to two days following infection with a virus that causes gastroenteritis and may last for one to ten days, depending on which virus caused the illness. Viral gastroenteritis is contagious and is spread through the fecal and oral route.

Food may be contaminated by food preparers or handlers who have viral gastroenteritis, especially if they do not wash their hands regularly after using the bathroom. Individuals may become infected by eating or drinking contaminated foods or beverages.

The main symptoms of viral gastroenteritis are watery diarrhea and vomiting. The affected person may also have headache, fever, and abdominal cramps or "stomach ache".

Persons can reduce their chances of becoming infected by frequent hand washing; prompt disinfection of contaminated surfaces with household chlorine bleach-based cleaners; and prompt washing of soiled articles of clothing. If food or water is considered to be contaminated, it should be avoided.

It is important to prevent severe loss of fluids (dehydration) in treating viral gastroenteritis in children and adults. This treatment should begin at home.

The Chief Medical Officer is recommending that families with infants and young children keep a supply of oral rehydration solution (ORS) at home at all times and use the solution when diarrhea first occurs in the child. ORS is available at pharmacies without a prescription. Follow the written directions on the ORS package, and to use boiled water.

The Ministry cautions that medications including antibiotics, which have no effect on viruses, and other treatments, should be avoided unless specifically recommended by a physician.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development provides leadership that promotes health, social wellness and a safe environment as positive resources for healthy living.

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