mmg.com.au

A Goulburn Valley Health spokesperson has confirmed a significant increase in patients with gastroenteritis-like symptoms this week.

The hospital spokesperson said there had been an influx in patients with abdominal pains, diarrhoea and vomiting.

This week St Brendan’s School Shepparton principal Paula Stevenson distributed a letter to families warning them of a gastro outbreak.

Mrs Stevenson said the letter informed parents and guardians there were several confirmed cases of gastro at the school with some students sent home feeling unwell.

She said some students were sent to hospital.

‘‘If anyone has stomach complaints we have asked not to send them to school and to stay home,’’ she said.

‘‘We haven’t had teachers away and there’s no rhyme or reason to who’s got it either.’’

The hospital spokesperson said there were a few ways to stop the illness spreading.

She said to take care when washing your hands, use hot water and soap and wash for at least 10 seconds.

Do not share towels in the bathroom and dry hands with an air dryer.

Anyone showing symptoms of gastro should visit their general practitioner immediately.