HEALTH authorities in Sabah are witnessing a surge in acute gastroenteritis (AGE) cases in the rural district of Tenom.
A total of 191 cases have been reported in just a span of two weeks, between June 3 and June 13 this year.
According to state health director Datuk Dr Asits Sana, AGE, which commonly affects children, is believed to be caused by contaminated water.
“A total of 19 clinical samples have been taken from patients warded at Tenom Hospital, and rotavirus has been detected in 16 samples.
“The infection is believed to stem from the consumption of contaminated water. Samples have also been taken from the suspected location; however, the exact cause is still being determined,” he said in a statement in Kota Kinabalu today.
Dr Asits said the state water department has been notified of the infections and was advised to monitor the treated water in the district.
He said 154 patients are now receiving outpatient treatment, while 33 patients have been discharged.
Four more are still receiving treatment in the hospital, he added.
AGE symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever, which can lead to dehydration and, if untreated, death.
Rotavirus can be transmitted through faecal-oral contact, direct contact, toys, or from contaminated surfaces.
Health officials are urging residents to take precautions and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. – June 17, 2024
