Parents are being warned of a contagious winter vomiting and diarrhoea bug that is sweeping many parts of the UK.
Although there have yet to be cases of the infection in North Wales, there have been reports of outbreaks in nearby counties such as Lancashire and Staffordshire.
Parents are being warned to be vigilant, and to be sure to contact the family GP should a child develop Shigellosis symptoms.
What are the symptoms?
The bug has some unpleasant effects, which are mainly;
Chronic diarrhoea (dysentery)
High temperature (fever) - 38C and over, or 37.5C and above in children under five.
Nausea and sickness
Painful stomach cramps
The symptoms usually last around five to seven days.
The diarrhoea can also cause dehydration too.
The infection usually spreads quickly amongst groups of people who are often in close contact with one another, such as families, schools and nurseries.
Fortunately, although the symptoms are nasty, Shigella is rarely serious. There is no magic cure, so those unlucky enough to pick up the bug will have to let it run its course. But there are things that you can do to ease the effects.
Treatment is usually plenty of fluids to ensure that dehydration doesn’t occur. It is also recommended to use oral re-hydration solutions if necessary.
However, it is best to steer clear of anti-diarrhoea medications (such as Loperamide) as they can make symptoms much worse.
Good hygiene is key to preventing the spread of Shigellosis.
You should wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet and at regular intervals throughout the day.
Help children to wash their hands properly.
If you need to clean a child’s potty, wear gloves when handling it and dispose of the contents in the toilet. Be sure to wash the potty with hot water after each use.
Clean and disinfect all toilets you use on a regular basis.
Don’t forget to clean flush handles, taps and sinks with soap and hot water after use, followed by a household disinfectant.
Always wash your hands before handling, eating or cooking food. Do not prepare or serve food for others if you are infected.
Avoid sharing towels and washcloths.
Be sure to wash the laundry of an infected person on the hottest possible setting.
Stay away from work or school until you have been symptom-free for at least 48 hours.
Do not go swimming until you have been free of symptoms for two days.
Avoid sexual contact until symptom free for 48 hours.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/health/highly-contagious-vomiting-diarrhoea-bug-12601345