Spain issues Easter warning over fast-spreading stomach virus outbreak
Photo Credit: Martijn Vonk / Unsplash
Residents and holidaymakers have been put on alert over a rapidly-spreading stomach virus affecting Spain’s Andalucia and the Costa del Sol. Ahead of Easter weekend, the regional government of Andalucia, as well as local officials, issued a warning about the virus, as many families gear up to take a weekend trip to some of Spain’s most popular coastal areas.
Where is the virus spreading?
The virus, which is a type of gastroenteritis, is a stomach flu that has seen an outbreak in the region, including in Almeria, Cadiz, Cordoba, Granada, Huelva, Jaen, Malaga, Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Marbella, and Sevilla. The virus has been described as extremely infectious, spread through direct contact with those who already have it, and it can affect people of any age.
The symptoms of the virus include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach pain
- Lethargy
- Mild fever
All of the above symptoms tend to come on very suddenly in the affected residents and holidaymakers.
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The Health Department of the Andalucia Regional Government has issued advice in order to help the public prevent the spread of the virus.
The advice offered by health officials includes:
- Washing hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water, especially after going to the toilet and before preparing or consuming food.
- Surfaces should be disinfected with diluted bleach.
- Anyone experiencing symptoms of the virus should refrain from physical contact with others and handling food.
Health officials also offered advice for those who have contracted the virus:
- Maintain proper hydration through water or broth. Those affected should avoid alcoholic, caffeinated, or sugary beverages.
- Consume light meals, sticking to bland foods like rice, applesauce, and toast.
- Get adequate rest.
- If the diarrhoea lasts beyond three days, the vomiting is preventing fluid intake, if blood appears in stools, or if vulnerable groups including children, the elderly, or those with underlying health conditions are affected, the Ministry of Health advises residents and visitors to consult a doctor.
- Residents and visitors should also consult a doctor if they exhibit warning signs of dehydration, including dry mouth, dizziness, or reduced urination.
According to health experts, following these rules will prevent the spread of the virus and ensure that public health will be protected over Easter weekend, even in the face of this nasty bug.