NRH detect Rota Virus cases, public urged to practice hygiene

The National Referral Hospital (NRH) Emergency Department has detected Rota Virus cases and reported a 22% increase in diarrhoeal cases as per the hospital’s daily Situation Report. 

While this increase has not yet reached the threshold of an outbreak, all wards and hospital departments and public are urged to remain vigilant and maintain heightened alertness, and practice hygiene.

The NRH medical laboratory surveillance has confirmed the presence of Rota Virus circulating within the community. 

This confirmation follows laboratory testing conducted in response to a notable surge in diarrhoea cases among children. 

According to hospital data, 22% of total presentations at the Emergency and Outpatient Departments were attributed to diarrhoeal cases, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Rota Virus is a common pathogen responsible for causing watery diarrhea and vomiting in children. Its highly contagious nature underscores the need for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to limit its spread. 

The virus spreads easily through contact with contaminated surfaces, water, food, or through person-to-person transmission.

Therefore, with the increased number of diarrhoea cases, public are advised, and especially parents to take precautionary steps to safeguard their families through;

•         Maintaining Proper Hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap and water is essential to minimize the risk of transmission.
•         Ensuring Hydration: Adequate fluid intake is crucial to prevent dehydration, particularly in children exhibiting symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting.
•         Keeping Children Isolated: If a child shows symptoms, avoiding contact with others can help stop the virus from spreading further.

The NRH urges parents, caregivers, and community members to remain vigilant and act promptly in case of symptoms. 

Timely medical intervention and adherence to hygiene protocols are key to managing the spread of the virus and reducing its impact on the community.

Also, Rota virus vaccine is available at all clinics for routine vaccinations at 6, 10, 14 weeks age for all infants as part of routine immunisations. 

The most effective methods for prevention of diarrhoea.

In the meantime, the NRH has issued a disease alert to all hospital departments, urging staff to remain vigilant and adopt stringent monitoring practices. 

“This includes enhanced hygiene protocols and preparedness to handle potential outbreaks effectively. The management has requested that departments collaborate closely to ensure comprehensive monitoring and patient care”.

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MHMS statement