Ministry: ‘Reports Of Diarrhea, Vomiting Illness’

The Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit in the Ministry of Health said they have “received reports of clusters of diarrhea and vomiting illness in the community.”

“A person can become ill with gastrointestinal illness such as diarrhea and vomiting by consuming contaminated food or water, directly from an ill person or contact with infected surfaces,” a Ministry spokesperson said.

“Persons who have symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea should not attend work and should not handle food for others while ill.

“Professional food handlers should consult their physician or the Department of Health before returning to work. Food that may have been contaminated by an ill person should be disposed of properly.

“Children with diarrhea and or vomiting should not attend school or a child care setting [nursery, home day care, etc.] until 48 hours from the last episode of diarrhea or vomiting.

“In addition, persons can help to prevent the spread of gastrointestinal illness by following these general precautions:

• Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water or hand sanitizer after using the toilet, changing diapers, or disposing of animal feces

• Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water or hand sanitizer before eating or food preparation, and after handling raw meat.

• Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly.

• Cooking and storing food appropriately. Keep hot food hot [at 140 degrees F or above], and cold food refrigerated [at 40 degrees F or below.] Protect food from insects.

• Using bottled water when traveling in countries where the water supply might be unsafe. In Bermuda, the Department of Health recommends that tank water be disinfected before it is used for drinking or food preparation – common methods include boiling, Ultraviolet light, and chlorination.

“Prevent the spread if you or a family member is ill by:

• Flushing or discarding any vomitus and/or stool in the toilet and making sure that the surrounding area is kept clean.

• Immediately removing and washing clothing or linens that may be contaminated.

• Disinfecting contaminated surfaces, e.g.: kitchen counters, bathroom surfaces.

“For more information and current alert, visit our website.”

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