CARMEL – Feeling lousy with an upset stomach, nausea and diarrhea?
You may be one of the latest victims of a gastrointestinal illness that has made dozens of people sick in the past 10 days.
The Putnam County Health Department’s Outbreak Team is investigating reports of gastrointestinal illness related to multiple events throughout the county and according to Shanna Siegel, Putnam Health Department’s Public Health Educator, “We are working with event organizers to identify potential cases. If any further information is needed, the team may reach out to impacted individuals directly.”
Siegel noted the incidence of gastrointestinal illnesses is being experienced throughout the Hudson Valley and New York State. “Residents are reminded to stay home when sick, and practice frequent and proper hand washing to help prevent illness. This type of illness can be very contagious. If you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, do not prepare or handle food for at least 48 hours after your last symptoms. Clean impacted areas right away, then disinfect with a bleach solution or an EPA-registered disinfectant effective against norovirus, which is a common source of gastrointestinal illness. If you are experiencing extreme symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. More information can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/prevention/index.html”
The seriousness of the health crisis prompted Robert Cuomo, Putnam County’s director of Emergency Medical Services, to issue an advisory Friday to all emergency providers. “EMS personnel are advised to be especially diligent during this time in the use of standard precautions and appropriate PPE. We would all like to be well for the holidays, so please be careful!”
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