Swansea parents and school staff warned of growing cases of gastroenteritis

A public health body in one part of Wales has issued a warning for parents and educational settings to protect themselves and children amid growing numbers of people falling ill. Public Health Wales Carmarthenshire and Swansea Bay local environmental health authority has said it has been made aware of a number of individuals who are currently reporting gastroenteritis-type illness in the area.

Gastroenteritis is a very common condition that causes diarrhoea and vomiting, according to the NHS. It's usually caused by a bacterial or viral tummy bug and can affect people of all ages, but is particularly common in young children.

In response, the authority has asked that parents as well as childcare, school and educational settings follow guidance in order to protect themselves and any other persons in their care. The guidance has been included in letters addressed to parents and staff. For the latest health and Covid news, sign up to our newsletter here.

The letter reads: "Public Health Wales, Carmarthenshire and Swansea Bay Local Environmental Health authority have been made aware that there is a number of individuals who are currently reporting gastro-enteritis type illness in the area including diarrhoea and vomiting. Can we ask that you follow the guidance below so to protect yourselves and any other persons in your childcare, school and educational setting."

The guidance advises that anyone attending a childcare, school and educational setting who reports being unwell with diarrhoea or vomiting should be sent home, and not return until 48 hours and is clear of symptoms. The guidance says that parents and staff should encourage anyone, who is experiencing being unwell including diarrhoea or vomiting, to contact their GP or local health service to provide a faeces (poo) sample.

It is also advised that if the symptoms are worsening or the individual is concerned, to seek medical advice. The authority has also highlighted the importance of hand hygiene and advises that people ensure good hand hygiene is undertaken and that everyone washes their hands, particularly after going to the toilet.

The authority added that anyone with symptoms should try not to prepare food for others, and make sure everyone washes their hands before eating. If anyone has any concerns regarding the letter, the authority recommends that they contact the Public Health Wales' AWARE team on their contact number 0300 003 0032.

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