Gastro warning as schools return amid significant rise in cases

Across the state, testing data shows rotavirus notifications are at some of their highest levels in recent years.

As schools return, Director of NSW Health's One Health branch Keira Glasgow said it was important to reduce the spread.

"Last week, there were more than 2700 presentations to NSW emergency departments with symptoms of gastroenteritis," she said.

"Presentations were particularly high in children who are under five years of age."

She said simple measures, like good hand hygiene and keeping children at home when they are unwell, could help stop the spread of gastro.

The increase is also being driven by norovirus, which is a common cause of outbreaks in residential aged care facilities, schools and child care centres.

Viruses are spread from the vomit or stool (faeces) of an infected person.

This can occur through close contact with unwashed hands, touching contaminated surfaces, when cleaning up body fluids, sharing of contaminated objects, consuming contaminated food or drink, and occasionally inhaling airborne particles when people vomit.

Parents are advised to keep children experiencing gastroenteritis home from childcare services, vacation care and school. Children should not return until 48 hours have passed since their last symptom.

If you are visiting a loved one in aged care, do not use private (in-room) toilets when visiting. If you have been unwell with an upset stomach or looking after children affected by these symptoms, wait at least 48 hours after your symptoms resolve before visiting.

The main treatment for viral gastroenteritis is to rest and drink plenty of fluids.

Most people recover without complications but more urgent care may need to be sought for infants, people with suppressed immune systems, and the elderly.