Suspected rotavirus outbreak hits Miramichi area

There is a suspected outbreak of rotavirus in the Miramichi area.

"The Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health can confirm we have received a report of a viral outbreak at a daycare in the area, including one confirmed case of rotavirus," said spokesman Paul Bradley.

Rotavirus is an infection that can cause fever, stomach pain, diarrhea and vomiting.

It "can be serious," leading to dehydration, and may require emergency room treatment or hospitalization, according to the Department of Health's website.

We are currently having an outbreak of rotavirus in theMiramichi.- Tiffany Kennan, ER doctor

Rotavirus usually affects children between the ages of six months and two years, but it can spreadto other peoplewho come into contact withinfected stool, or a surface contaminated with the infected stool.

Bradley did not say how many people are sick, but an emergency room doctor at the MiramichiRegional Hospital described it as an "outbreak of rotavirus" in a Facebook post.

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"We are currently having an outbreak of rotavirus in theMiramichi," Dr. Tiffany Keenan wrote, urging parents to review online information about the virus.

"The key to treating diarrhea in all ages is oralrehydration," said Keenan, noting special solutionsthat contain a balance of electrolytes are available to "replenish the body."

New Brunswick had at least three outbreaks lastyear andaboutfour or five outbreaks in 2016.

"We routinely see these types of outbreaks, more so during the winter months," said Bradley.

About one in five cases of the so-called stomach flu in children is caused by rotavirus, according to the Department of Health.

Spreads 'easily'

Symptomsusuallyappear within three days of infection and can last up to eight days.

The virus is "easily" spread from hand to mouth by dirty diapers, toys, changing tables or doorknobs, the department's website states.

People who have rotavirus can start to spread the infection before they even start to feel sick, and they remain contagious a day or more after their diarrhea stops.

A preventiveoral vaccine has been available in New Brunswick for about a year.

Proper handwashingcan also help prevent the virus from spreading.

Rotavirus is confirmed by testing a stool sample.