Gastroenteritis

There has been an increase in the number of reported gastroenteritis cases in the Great Southern.

Gastroenteritis, or ‘gastro’ is a common condition of all ages.  It occurs when the bowel is infected by a virus or bacteria.  Symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps and sometimes, fever. 

Most cases are not serious, but it is very important to make sure that a person with gastro receives enough fluid.

If your child has gastro, keep them away from school for 48 hours after vomiting and diarrhoea have stopped.  If symptoms persist see your family doctor.

The easiest way to prevent gastro is to make sure everyone in the family washes their hands regularly, especially before eating and after going to the toilet.

For more information go to Gastroenteritis (healthywa.wa.gov.au)  

Bedwetting

Bedwetting, or nocturnal enuresis, is very common in children.  Bedwetting has nothing to do with dreaming, and children who wet the bed are not “just being lazy”.

If your child wets the bed, there are a number of things you can do to help, such as using a waterproof mattress cover and establishing a before-bed toilet routine.  It is not helpful to punish children who wet the bed.  Fluids should not be restricted, even before bedtime.  Sugary or caffeinated drinks should be avoided.

If your child is still wetting the bed after five and a half years of age, seek help through a referral by your local doctor.  A bedwetting alarm is an effective and safe method of treatment available for nocturnal enuresis and may be appropriate for your child. 

Great Southern Population Health facilitates a bedwetting program which is delivered by School Health Nurses.  The program is free.  It is run through the school term and there are vacancies for Term 1 2022.

Contact your local School Health Nurse’s, Paula Stretton and Rochelle Klose on 98480100 or 0427922663 for more information or email:  Paula.Stretton@health.wa.gov.au or Rochelle.Klose@health.wa.gov.au