Ministry of Health and Wellness records increase in gastrointestinal cases among children

The Ministry of Health & Wellness has recorded an increase in the cases of gastrointestinal illnesses, especially among children, which suggests that the cause is a virus.

The uptick in persons under five years of age moved from one case in the week ending February 7, 2026, to eight cases in the week ending February 14, as well as the week ending February 28.  Any number over three cases per week for this age group is a concern.  In addition, outbreaks have been identified in a few day care situations. Norovirus has been detected in some of the submitted diarrhoeal samples.   Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes usually short-lived but vigorous vomiting and diarrhoea and may result in dehydration in infected persons.

Operators of child care services are urged to ensure proper hand hygiene methods for staff and children in their care.  In addition to washing hands regularly with soap and water, stringent cleaning of surfaces, followed by sanitisation with diluted bleach solutions, is recommended.

The Ministry stresses that good hand hygiene is the most effective way of reducing the transmission of this illness and many other viral and bacterial illnesses.

Hand hygiene includes washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and drying them with disposable tissue. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitiser may be used, although it may be less effective in killing the virus.

Children with diarrhoea should be monitored for signs of dehydration, which may include less urine, dry mouth, less tears when crying, excessive thirst or lethargy.   If vomiting is persistent, caregivers should seek medical assistance.

Children who have vomiting and/or diarrhoea should be kept away from school or nursery until at least 48 hours after the diarrhoea has ceased.   The toys and utensils touched by affected persons should also be washed and sanitised.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness encourages members of the public to take all measures possible to safeguard their health and the health of their children. (MHW)