School Medical Office: Increased outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis in Hong Kong

Dear Parents/Guardians,

The Centre For Health Protection (CHP) has reported an increase in the outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis in Hong Kong.

Acute gastroenteritis is usually caused by norovirus or rotavirus infection. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever and malaise. These viruses can be transmitted by consumption of contaminated food, contact with vomitus or excreta of infected persons, contaminated objects and aerosol spread via infectious droplets.

To prevent outbreaks of viral gastroenteritis (and seasonal influenza which is currently circulating in Hong Kong), please could you speak to your child about the importance of strict personal, food and environmental hygiene:

– Remind children to maintain strict personal hygiene, especially proper hand washing with liquid soap before meals and after going to the bathroom.

– Children using the water fountain should not come in direct contact with the mouth piece or protective guard.

– Please keep affected children away from school until their diarrhea or vomiting has subsided for at least 2 days or as advised by their doctor.

– Ensure all food is adequately cooked, especially high risk food such as shellfish.

– Cleaning and disinfection of the school environment has been enhanced.

For more information, you may wish to visit the CHP website: http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201703/15/P2017031500720.htm

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,
Joyce Yetman
School Health Professional