You may have heard the news of yet another cruise ship affected by gastroenteritis. Hundreds of passengers and some crew fell ill, rapidly. That’s because the viruses that cause gastroenteritis are highly contagious and spread quickly in environments with a lot of people in close quarters. Abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea… If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms you may be suffering from What’s Going Around –
Gastroenteritis.

Centra Care physicians have seen a substantial increase in patients with gastroenteritis coming into their centers:

Azalea Park - up 350%
Formosa – up 300%
Lee Road – up 450%
Sanford – up 320%
Winter Garden Village – up 250%

Though you may not be saying ‘bon voyage’, it doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. Similar to cruise ships, the virus spreads quickly in other locations where people congregate. For example, the workplace, but there are things you can do to avoid it.

LEARN MORE:

Gastroenteritis is often called stomach flu, but the influenza virus does not cause it. It’s caused by an intestinal virus that is easily spread from person to person. You can also become ill by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Poor hand washing most commonly transmits viruses.

PREVENTING STOMACH FLU AT WORK:

• Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds (especially before, during & after food prep, and after using the bathroom). Be cautious of common areas where viruses can linger for hours like: break-rooms (counter tops, coffee pot, mugs, cabinets etc.), conference rooms (tables, chairs) And objects such as: door knobs, elevator buttons, fax & copy machines and faucet handles can also be brimming with germs.
• Disinfect surfaces in your work area that are frequently touched: desktop, keyboard/mouse, telephone, etc.
• Don’t share eating utensils or beverages
• Keep your hands away from your face
• Keep hand sanitizer with you for times when you’re unable to wash with soap and water.

If you get sick, do your co-workers a favor and stay home until you’re well. The biggest risk is dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include:
decreased urination, extreme lethargy and light-headedness. Here are a few recommendations if you fall ill:

• It’s extremely important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of clear liquids like water, sport drinks, or even pediatric electrolyte solutions like Pedialyte. Don’t drink too much at one time. It is best to take small frequent sips or suck on ice cubes.
• See your doctor if you are unable to keep any fluids down.
• Avoid dairy, caffeine, and spicy foods until you feel better.
• Get plenty of rest

The stomach flu is viral in nature so it can’t be treated with antibiotics; but, Centra Care physicians can prescribe medication that can stop the vomiting, slow the diarrhea and prevent dehydration.

There 18 Centra Care Urgent Care locations – and a Florida Hospital certified physician on site – 7 Days a Week. For locations and phone numbers
visit: www.CentraCare.org

Sincerely,

Florida Hospital Centra Care
407-200-CARE (2273)
To learn more about "What's Going Around" in our community you can listen to the Centra Care Senior Medical Director each Tuesday morning between 8am and 8:30am on 88.3FM radio - Z88.3