Public Health Service has advised of gastroenteritis (gastro) outbreaks in the Tasmanian community, including in schools

Infectious gastroenteritis (‘gastro’) is a short-term illness caused by infection and inflammation of the digestive system. Symptoms may include diarrhoea (frequent or loose stools), vomiting and abdominal pain. There are many causes of gastroenteritis, with the most common being a viral infection.

Infectious gastroenteritis is spread very easily. It may be spread via vomit and faeces (poo) of an infected person or contaminated objects, food or water.

Infection control recommendations:

• Children or staff who become unwell with vomiting and/or diarrhoea while at school should go home.
• Children and staff should not return to school until at least 48 hours after symptoms have resolved.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after any contact with a sick person.
• Staff to remind children to wash their hands before eating and after using the toilet.

Additional information can be found at https://www.health.tas.gov.au/publications/viral-gastro-fact-sheet.