Gastrointestinal Illness on the Rise - An Interview with Matt Bauer, Communicable Disease and Emergency Preparedness and Response Manager
There has been a recent increase in gastrointestinal illness in Larimer County. Can you tell us more about these outbreaks?
There has been a significant increase in outbreaks reported over the last 4-5 weeks. We have had 18 outbreaks in Larimer County reported during this timeframe, compared to 2 in the prior 8 weeks. The most common settings include schools, childcare, and nursing homes.
We work with the impacted locations to ensure measures are implemented to control the spread. These include increased cleaning and disinfecting, ensuring appropriate disinfectants are being used, alterations on when ill individuals can return to work or normal activities, and ensuring proper notification of impacts to clients, attendees, and staff.
What causes gastrointestinal illness and how does it spread?
Gastrointestinal illnesses (commonly called the stomach flu or stomach bug) can be caused by a number of viruses including norovirus, adenovirus, astrovirus, and calicivirus. Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the United States. About 50% of all outbreaks of food-related illnesses are caused by norovirus.
These viruses are highly infectious and spread through the fecal-oral route, either by consumption of contaminated food or water or by direct person-to-person contact. Traces of poop may linger on people’s hands or surfaces and then be indirectly transferred to other people. This occurs when someone touches a contaminated surface or object and then touches their mouth. Lastly, these viruses can be spread by inhaling virus particles that have been released into the air when an infected person vomits.
What is the best way to prevent the spread of gastrointestinal illness?
The best way to prevent the spread of gastrointestinal illnesses is to stay away from others when ill and wash your hands frequently with soap and water. This is especially important after using the restroom and before preparing or eating food. It is important to note that hand sanitizers are not effective for norovirus.
What should people do if they are experiencing symptoms?
Most people will recover without treatment in 1-3 days. While there is no specific treatment for viral gastroenteritis, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. People with severe or prolonged diarrhea (lasting longer than two to three days) or who have a high fever or bloody diarrhea should see a health care provider.
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