Stomach bug keeps 27th Medical Group active

the 27th Medical Group Staff

Airmen advised to avoid workplace

The Cannon medical group has seen a recent increase of acute gastroenteritis, commonly known as the “stomach bug” among its clients. This illness typically presents itself with symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea and generally feeling “poor.” Running a low-grade fever (up to 100 degrees) is common.

This illness has been lasting around 24 hours. If you or a loved one comes down with this illness, you should observe the following:

— Try to drink as many fluids as possible. Gatorade, Pedialyte or other commercial electrolyte drinks are preferred, and should be diluted to half-strength with water. Another good choice is diluted apple juice.

— Avoid plain water, which can irritate a stomach that’s already sick.

— When re-starting solid foods, bland foods such as saltine crackers, toast, clear soups or broth should be eaten before moving on to heavier foods.

If a sick patient goes more than six hours without being able to keep oral fluids down, they should contact a Primary Care Manager at 784-2778, to see if they may need intravenous fluids. However, for most patients this illness usually resolves on its own without the need for medication.

Those who come into contact with patients, as well as patients themselves, should wash their hand frequently. The virus that causes this illness is extremely contagious, and passes easily through casual contact.

Individuals who are ill and at home should be isolated if possible. They should use a separate bathroom, which should be thoroughly disinfected after the illness has passed.

Sick individuals should stay away from the workplace, but Airmen must first contact their supervisors. Unit commanders and supervisors have the authority to grant up to 24 hours of “sick status” at their discretion. By granting 24-hour quarters to individuals suffering from this illness, supervisors can try to reduce the spread of illness to others at the worksite and potentially save 24 hours of quarters for a larger number of personnel.

For more information, contact Public Health at 784-4603.