Widespread Gastrointestinal Illness Reported Iin Calaveras County

CALAVERAS COUNTY (CBS13) - An outbreak of gastrointestinal illness has hit dozens of students at two elementary schools in Calaveras County, prompting the health department to issue a reminder about proper sanitation practices.

The two schools elementary schools are Railroad Flat and West Point elementaries in the Calaveras Unified School District. One classroom reportedly had 12 of its 14 students come down with symptoms.

However, the schools continue to operate as normal and classes have not been canceled.

"Viral gastrointestinal illness starts rapidly with vomiting and stomach cramps. Some people have diarrhea, fever, headache and body aches as well," said Calaveras County Health Officer Dr. Dean Kelaita in a press release Thursday.

"Symptoms of viral gastrointestinal illness usually last for about eight hours but can continue for up to two days. Rest and plenty of fluids are important if someone in your family has these symptoms. If they are not able to keep fluids down you should contact a doctor, clinic or emergency room."

To prevent the spread of illness at home and in the community the Public Health Department recommends:

• Staying home from work or school if a person is vomiting or has diarrhea;
• Staying home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop;
• Washing hands often and thoroughly. Help young children wash their hands, especially after going to the bathroom;
• Using a household disinfectant to thoroughly clean any areas where vomiting and diarrhea occur

Residents can call the Public Health Department at (209) 754-6460 or visit its website for more information.