Information for Early Childhood and Vacation Care Directors
Please distribute this information to all staff
26 September 2024
Summary
Gastroenteritis outbreaks are increasing in NSW with over 224 outbreaks of viral gastroenteritis
reported in childcare facilities since 1 September 2024. This is 50 percent more than the previous
month. At least 1,532 children and 313 staff have so far been affected. The outbreaks have been
caused by a mix of viral pathogens, including rotavirus and norovirus.
Actions to prevent spread
• Alert your staff to report symptoms of gastroenteritis in either children or themselves
• Reinforce basic hygiene measures, such as regular hand washing (pay close attention to
hand washing with soap and warm water after nappy changes), regular cleaning and
disinfecting hard surfaces, and providing education to staff and parents help prevent the
spread of infections
• Exclude sick children and staff from attending the centre for at least 48 hours after their
symptoms settle, and encourage them to visit their local GP, who may arrange testing
• Wear gloves and a mask if cleaning up bodily fluids, including vomit. Disinfect surfaces with
a freshly made sodium hypochlorite solution
• Promptly notify your local public health unit on 1300 066 055 (or through online notification
where this is available) if an outbreak is suspected.
• An outbreak should be suspected when 2 or more children or staff have sudden onset of
vomiting or diarrhoea in a 2-day period. Reporting is required under the Public Health Act.
About viral gastroenteritis
Viral gastroenteritis usually starts with sudden onset of vomiting and/or diarrhoea. It is highly
infectious and can spread rapidly in childcare centres. It spreads through the vomit or faeces of an
infected person through close contact, contaminated surfaces, consuming contaminated food or
drink, and/or from person-to-person through unwashed hands
Viral gastroenteritis is a common intestinal infection caused by a number of different viruses.
Norovirus infections are the most common cause during the cooler months. Rotavirus is the most
common cause of severe gastroenteritis in early childhood globally. Immunisation to prevent or
reduce the severity of rotavirus infection is free for children under six months of age.
Further information
Resources to assist in the management of viral gastroenteritis in child care centres are available at:
http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/gastroenteritis/Pages/default.aspx
Keira Glasgow
Director, One Health Branch
Health Protection NSW