Viral gastroenteritis is highly infectious and can spread rapidly which is the cause for alarm among parents and childcare centres. NSW Health has warned of a spike in gastroenteritis cases, particularly among children under the age of five in recent days. Alarmingly, the state is currently on alert amid its worst gastro outbreak in years. Victoria had a 149% increase on gastro outbreaks in Childcare alone in 2023. And due to the nature of gastro within a childcare environment, more outbreaks will continue to come. Luckily, this is a short-term condition which can be resolved in no time when infection control and other measures are put in place. Let’s explore this further.
Gastro A.K.A gastroenteritis (also known as the common stomach bug)
Gastroenteritis is an infection that impacts the digestive system, specifically the intestines and the stomach. People of all ages can develop gastroenteritis. This illness is triggered by germs in our external environment including bacteria, bacterial toxins, viruses, parasites, along with some drugs and chemicals.
Symptoms of Gastroenteritis
Recognizing the symptoms of gastro early is crucial for containing an outbreak. Common signs include:
Sudden onset of vomiting and/or diarrhea
Stomach cramps or discomfort
Mild fever, headache, or muscle aches
Fatigue and irritability in young children
Infected Children or educators can spread the virus before symptoms appear and even after they feel better, making strict hygiene practices critical to contain an outbreak.
Gastro outbreaks in childcare centres
The transmission of gastroenteritis in childcare centres is dependent on the infection control parameters that are put into place, along with the health and wellbeing of other children. In an outbreak, more than one child is impacted. If you suspect your child has gastroenteritis, it’s important to inform staff at the childcare centre.
What to expect in the days following an outbreak?
The Childcare centre will ensure sufficient cleaning agents are available for children including handwash, hand sanitiser dispenses, hand wipes and paper towels. Personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks and long-sleeved gowns should be utilised by staff when disinfecting areas within the centre, if equipment is available.
Signage of the outbreak is displayed in centres and all parents should be notified via email until the matter is resolved. The recommended advice is for children to remain at home until fully recovered and should only return to school 48 hours after last symptoms have ceased. Parents can speak with their doctor if they have any questions or concerns.
Infection control and food safety
Whilst nobody likes feeling unwell, there are things parents and carers can do for children to minimise, prevent or avoid the spread of gastroenteritis.
Infection control:
Children should remain at home until symptoms have ceased, wait at least 48 hours.
Ensure that both staff and children wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, particularly after using the bathroom, before meals, and after changing diapers. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are less effective against certain types of gastro, so handwashing should be prioritized.
Frequently clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces, such as toys, tables, doorknobs, and bathroom areas. Use a bleach-based disinfectant or another product proven effective against gastro-causing pathogens.
Overseas where tap water is unsafe to drink due to sanitation, drink bottled water (including when brushing teeth).
Food Safety:
Clean all kitchen equipment and surfaces daily.
Avoid sharing food and utensils with other children in childcare centres.
Handle raw and cooked foods separately. Separate chopping boards and utensils for raw and cooked products.
Store food items at the correct temperature to avoid the growth of bacteria. Store hot food hot (above 60°C) and cold food cold (below 5°C).
How can children regain their strength after gastro?
The impact of gastroenteritis will vary for each child, and they certainly can regain their strength back with appropriate treatment and care. Rest is significantly important during this time and depending on the cause of the condition if its bacteria related, antibiotic use may be recommended by a doctor. Likewise, appropriate medication can be taken if parasites are the cause.
Dietary Advice relating to dairy with gastro
Parents often ask whether their child can consume dairy during or after gastroenteritis. If a child is experiencing diarrhoea, consumption of dairy products may worsen one’s symptoms and therefore it’s recommended to minimise dairy intake during this time. If sensitivity to dairy occurs following a case of gastroenteritis, it’s recommended to see a doctor.
Advice from Dietitians for parents
Parents often wonder how gastroenteritis will impact their child and if there is any dietary advice that needs to be considered. The good news is… it’s not recommended to follow a restrictive diet.
Limit:
Some foods may worsen symptoms such as milk and milk products, sweetened foods and beverages, caffeinated drinks, as well as high fat foods (fast food, fried foods, and pizza).
Include:
Food: Bland, easy to digest foods such as toast, rice, plain crackers, chicken, and bananas are often tolerated by individuals with low appetite. Small amounts of food are recommended for children experiencing nausea. Children may refuse food early on, which is not uncommon and in these cases it’s best to give them food once they have an appetite.
Drinks: If they are not eating, it’s important there ingesting fluids. Keeping children hydrated with water and oral rehydration fluids (hydralyte or gastrolyte) is advised due to fluid and electrolyte losses from vomiting and diarrhoea. Small frequent sips are best for improved tolerance and digestion. On rare occasions where children cannot ingest fluids, admitting a child to hospital for nutrition support is advocated.
How can a Dietitian help?
A Dietitian will complete a nutrition assessment to determine whether a child is meeting their nutritional requirements, given children are still growing and developing. Maintaining good nutrition and hydration throughout life is important, particularly when unwell to avoid fluid losses and a significant loss of weight in a short time frame. A Dietitian can help with personalised support if you have any concerns for any children.
Whether you’re a parent or carer of a child, don’t hesitate to reach out to an Accredited Practising Dietitian at OSCAR Care Group for nutritional support. Where medical guidance is needed, it’s important to speak with your GP.
In Summary
Gastroenteritis is typically a mild, short-term illness and there are things we all can do to minimise prevent or avoid gastroenteritis. Prevention is key by following infection control policies and food safety procedures. For more Food Safety help, our team of experts are here to help. Reach out to our team today.