In what has been called the worst flu season on record, treatments for acute cases are unavailable locally due to a national shortage.
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“It’s going to be a severe season,” local pharmacist Jessica Simpson said, noting that a decreased rate of vaccinations had likely contributed to the outbreak.
So far, this year, there have been a recorded 48,006 cases in NSW – compared to 35,538 for the entire year of 2016.
Ms Simpson said anyone experiencing symptoms should visit their doctor and try to remain isolated.
She said that vaccinations are still are still available and well worth it.
In light of the reports, McLean Care reminded the community of the possible serious consequences of an outbreak of either gastroenteritis or influenza in aged care residential facilities.
McLean Care noted that these types of bugs are usually quite virulent, and are easily transmitted from person to person. They are taking extra care to remain unaffected, and have increased vigilance for hygiene and routines that help to minimise exposure and spread of the infecting agents.
“There are several different types of infectious agents that can affect residents, and elderly people are particularly susceptible to the more severe complications of both gastroenteritis and influenza,” general manager residential services Sarah Wade said.
Influenza is a particular risk of serious illness to people 65 years of age and over, and those of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent who are 50 years of age and over. Residents in long term health care facilities such as residential aged care, and individuals who have complex health conditions are also at greater risk than the general population; elderly people are particularly susceptible to the more severe complications of gastroenteritis.
“McLean Care has specific protocols in place, including strict adherence to high food safety standards and additional food handling precautions,” Ms Wade continued. She said there were many hygiene measure in place and staff were careful of who they spent time with.
“Annual influenza immunisation for both staff and Residents is carried out, and although we have stringent hygiene practices, occasionally the virus, which is particularly determined bug, still manages to reach us.”
“We certainly don’t want to alarm anyone, and wish to reassure families and the wider community that should we experience an outbreak of gastroenteritis or influenza, we will do everything that we can to contain the spread of the illness, and comfort and care for our residents who are infected,.”
McLean Care asked anyone who believes they have been in contact with people with gastro or flu-like symptoms recently, to avoid visiting the residential facilities.
Symptoms of gastroenteritis can include diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, fever, headaches and general lethargy.
Symptoms of influenza develop rapidly, within 2-3 days, and an infected person can be infectious for a few days, and may transmit the virus, one to two days before the onset of their own symptoms.