Viral gastro outbreaks double in childcare centres
The rise in Vic and NSW is likely due to use of hand sanitisers instead of soap and water, says Victoria's CHO
Leading doctors are warning of a rise in outbreaks of viral gastroenteritis at childcare centres in two states.
A fall in soap and water handwashing practices after the rise of hand sanitiser-use during the pandemic may have contributed to the uptick, says Victoria’s Chief Health Officer.
So far this year there have been 104 confirmed viral gastroenteritis outbreaks in Victoria’s early childhood education and care sector.
The five-year average for the same period is 63 outbreaks.
