VIRAL INFECTION ON ST HELENA

VIRAL INFECTION ON ST HELENA

 The Health Directorate wishes to advise the public that there is currently a human viral infection going around on the Island, with symptoms which include diarrhoea, vomiting, high temperatures, dry cough and body aches.

Please be advised that this condition, in the majority of cases, can be managed at home with rest, regular fluids and painkillers (available in most local shops).

If symptoms deteriorate and are not improved after 24 – 48 hours please do seek medical advice.  However if anyone is concerned about their health at any time please contact the Hospital to seek further advice.  Patients particularly at risk include young children and the elderly.

This virus is contagious – and the Health Directorate would like to ask those with the virus to avoid attending the Hospital where possibleThose who can are asked to manage their symptoms at home to avoid spreading the virus.

Children

If parents are concerned about the health of their children they should contact the Hospital immediately to seek further advice.

A trial of the supply of free over-the-counter medications to children is currently under way on St Helena (on a six-month trial basis initially, begun on 1 September 2015)

Under this trial, children up to 16 years of age, or up to 18 years of age if still attending school, can obtain a maximum of two over the counter items per month, direct from the Hospital Pharmacy, without prescription or charge.

This is in specific situations where the Pharmacist deems the supply to be appropriate, either as a result of a nurse triaging the patient or from direct contact.  If there are any clinical concerns, the patient will naturally be referred for an appointment with a medical officer.

SHG

26 January 2016

 

 

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St Helena Government Communications Hub

Telephone: 22470
Email: kimberley.peters@sainthelena.gov.sh