Gastroenteritis Crisis: 1,334 Cases Recorded in Just 1 Week

Mauritius finds itself grappling with a significant surge in gastroenteritis cases, prompting health authorities to raise the alarm. The latest figures from the Ministry of Health reveal a staggering 1,334 cases reported between 21st and 27th April, a sharp increase from the 1,156 cases documented the previous week. This alarming rise has compelled officials to reiterate their warnings to the public.

Dr Fazil Khodabocus, the interim director of health services, has attributed this spike largely to the prevailing climatic conditions.

Gastroenteritis: Watch Out For Bacteria

“The warm and humid climate fosters the proliferation of bacteria, particularly in poorly stored or inadequately cooked foods,” he stated, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Among the foods deemed high-risk are milk, cheese, poultry, and other perishable items that can easily become breeding grounds for harmful pathogens.

In light of these developments, the Ministry of Health has issued urgent recommendations: it is imperative to boil water before consumption, to favour freshly prepared meals, and to avoid dishes that have been left at room temperature.

Vulnerable groups, including young children, pregnant women, and the elderly, are particularly at risk, making it essential to exercise heightened vigilance to avert complications arising from dehydration or more severe infections.

Moreover, health authorities are calling for strict hygiene practices in kitchens and emphasising the importance of regular handwashing, especially before food preparation or handling.

In these precarious times, adhering to stringent hygiene practices and food safety measures is vital to safeguarding our health and preventing further outbreaks.

Source: Defi Media