CALGARY – An outbreak of gastroenteritis, also known as the stomach flu, has been declared within the Foothills Medical Centre. Visitors to Unit 100 are now being restricted as health officials work to contain the very contagious viral infection that causes vomiting and diarrhea.
“This is a time of year when we tend to see a lot of gastrointestinal activity in the community and to have it show up in an acute care unit is not unusual at all,” said Dr. Judy MacDonald, medical officer of health for Alberta Health Services Calgary Zone.
The Foothills Medical Centre outbreak is one of seven active outbreaks of gastroenteritis in Calgary hospitals or care centres at the moment. There have been 24 since January 1, 2015. MacDonald says this winter is shaping up to be more severe than last year, particularly when it comes to norovirus, the most common cause of stomach flu.
“We know from the tracking that’s been done by the laboratory that every second year or so we tend to see more norovirus activity, and this is one of those years where we can expect to see more. It sort of cycles.”
Symptoms of gastroenteritis usually last one to three days and include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps and pain, muscle ache and a low-grade fever. Most people can recover at home but should seek medical attention if they experience dehydration. A call to health link at 1-866-408-5465 can help patients and parents determine when to see a doctor.
Unlike influenza, gastroenteritis is not preventable through a vaccine. To help prevent the spread of the stomach flu, experts suggest you:
- Stay home if you experience symptoms
- Do not visit hospitals or care centres
- Wash hands and surfaces frequently
- Do not prepare food for others while experiencing symptoms
- Do not share towels
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