Rise in gastro-enteritis cases expected

A RISE in the number of cases of viral gastro-enteritis is both seasonal and not unexpected, Health Minister Frixos Savvides said yesterday.

Savvides said the situation was under control and there was no need to worry.

He suggested that the spate of incidents may have been caused by a gastro-enteritis epidemic in northern Greece that had been brought to the island by travellers.

Reports said one in three patients visiting hospital emergency rooms on Friday displayed symptoms of viral gastro-enteritis, that the number of those affected had reached 300, and that it is expected to rise further in coming days.

Savvides said the situation did not warrant the issue of a warning by the health services but he suggested that people keep warm.

“Those who are ill should not frequent enclosed spaces full of people,” Savvides said.

He added that special attention should also be paid to the food people eat.

The virus has affected people of all ages. Symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, headaches and muscle pains.

The health authorities say there is no reason for concern, although hospitals are still preparing to tackle an increased number of cases over the next few days because of the New Year festivities.

 

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