Shoalhaven residents beware - there are a couple of nasty viruses going around.
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On Wednesday, the Illawarra-Shoalhaven Health District confirmed a number of anecdotal reports about the increased prevalence of gastro and influenza in the Shoalhaven.
"In regards to influenza and gastro, we're seeing more cases in child care centres for this time of year than we've seen in previous years," Illawarra-Shoalhaven Director of Public Health Curtis Gregory said.
"We don't collect information from schools, but it wouldn't be unusual to see it in the schools too."
Nowra High School took to Facebook this week, encouraging parents to keep children affected by gastro at home to prevent its spread.
Mr Gregory has echoed that advice.
"We make that recommendation for anyone who's sick, don't go into work and try and if your kids are sick, keep them at home," Mr Gregory said.
"If it's a viral gastro bug, it's really quite contagious and easy to transmit.
"You get it by coming into close contact with someone else who has gastro, and kids play closely together, when they're playing sports and interacting."
Infants, elderly people and those with suppressed immune systems are most at risk of suffering the worst symptoms of the flu and gastro.
"It can cause a high fever and dehydration," Mr Gregory said.
"If really you're concerned, go to a GP."
The main treatment for viral gastroenteritis is rest and drinking plenty of fluids. Most people recover without complications.
"Infants or children in childcare or school who develop vomiting or diarrhoea, should stay home for at least 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped," NSW Health disease expert Keira Glasgow said.
People whose work involves handling food, or looking after children, the elderly or patients, should not return to work until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped to avoid spread of infection to others.
People who are not in school or childcare, do not prepare food for others or do not look after children or the elderly should stay home for at least 24 hours after symptoms cease.
Anyone recovering from gastroenteritis should avoid visiting hospitals and aged care facilities to avoid spreading the infection to those most vulnerable.
