The activity of gastroenteritis is already strong in some French departments. This with three months in advance. The health authorities remind us of the actions to be taken.
The cases of gastroenteritis are increasing. For the week of October 24 to 30, according to data from the Sentinels Network, the national incidence of acute diarrhea leading to a consultation with a general practitioner was 161 cases / 100,000 inhabitants. This activity is considered moderate, and strong in the northern regions, among the most affected. However, it remains below the epidemic threshold set at 166 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.
Regarding the activity of hospital emergency services, it remains similar to that observed last week. But vigilance remains in order, because these figures are higher than those observed at the same period in 2014 and in 2015. It must be said that the virus is three months ahead of the usual schedule.
11% of the activity of SOS Médecins
In addition, SOS Médecins informs that the proportion of consultations for acute gastroenteritis is around 11%. Here again, this activity remains higher than that observed during the previous 2 years at the same period. In a previous bulletin, the agency reassured, however, that the virus is not very virulent.
And Irsan (1) also wants to be optimistic. The Institute estimates that gastroenteritis has affected 198,718 new people in mainland France. This value is down 16.37% compared to last week (237,625), he says.
(1) During the period from Thursday October 27, 2016 to Wednesday November 02, 2016
Preventive measures
The hands are the most important vector for the transmission of enteric viruses and, therefore, hand hygiene is essential (soap and water, or hydro-alcoholic product). Likewise, some viruses (rotavirus and norovirus) being very resistant in the environment and present on surfaces, they must be cleaned carefully and regularly in places with a high risk of transmission (pediatric departments, institutions welcoming the elderly. ).
The best prevention of complications of acute diarrhea is early rehydration with oral rehydration fluids (ORS). Its effectiveness has been widely demonstrated by numerous studies, and ORS are reimbursed by social security for children under 5 years old. More information on the website Public health France.
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