Action plan developed to stem Gastro outbreaks in Region #1

The outbreak of gastroenteritis in the community of Baramita, Region One continues to be a major concern for the health authorities.

In this regard, Director of Regional Health Services (RHS) Dr. Kay Shako recently disclosed that an integrated action plan was developed with help from residents of Baramita, Regional Authorities and the Ministry of Public Health to tackle the issue.

Dr. Shako said there is also an increase of public education on hygiene, sanitation including hand washing, sealed pit latrine, adequate garbage disposal, safe drinkable water, frequent water sample testing and adequate source of water supply, along with the use of collapsible water bags.

This is so, since traditional health practices and behaviors in the region also contribute to the situation.

There will also be regular monitoring and evaluation by local health care providers as well as officials of the Ministry to ensure that the community is complying with the health care plan, he added.

The outbreak of gastroenteritis in the community of Baramita in December 2015 attracted much public attention with mixed views, however residents and health officials stated that the issue has always plagued the region.

From May 05-10^th, 2016, there has been 27 cases of Diarrhoea alone, 4 case of diarrhoea + vomiting, 3 cases of vomiting and 3 cases of dysentery.

For the period May 11-30, 21 male and 25 female cases were reported. These are broken down to: Diarrhea 16, Vomiting 7, Diarrhea and vomiting 18 and, Bloody diarrhea 5.

The infection causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically resulting from bacterial toxins or viral infection and causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Meanwhile, the Director said that “based on reports and checking done yesterday, there has so far been no reported cases (of gastroenteritis) in the City or at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Referring to a shortage of medications at the Wax Creek Health Post, Mazaruni, the Director of Regional Health Services said there is no drug shortage at the health post.  However, there are a few items which the current CHW has indicated is running low. “These items have been packed and will be sent up with the first boat in the area. These include, Panadol 500mg, Ibuprofen 400mg, Flagyl suspension, Cotrimoxazole suspension, NS, RL, Amoxil Suspension, Diclofenac 50mg, intracats and infusion sets,” she said.