Hernando County Health Department Investigating Illness

State Agency Investigating Illness

Spring Hill- The Hernando County Health Department launched an environmental health investigation after numerous Hernando County residents and visitors began reporting symptoms of gastrointestinal illness late Friday afternoon March 11, 2011. The reports taken indicate that forceful vomiting and diarrhea, weakness, nausea and fatigue that lasted three to five days are all common characteristics of this illness. Several residents who experienced the illness have agreed to provide samples for laboratory testing, which can determine the type of organism and may assist in identifying the source of the illness.

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation, which licenses Florida restaurants, conducted a joint inspection with the Department of Health on Monday, March 14. While results from the Department of Health’s epidemiological investigation are not yet available, DBPR’s inspection found minimal violations pertaining to the food preparation, service or storage. These types of violations do not warrant closure without additional epidemiological findings.

Residents can decrease their chances of developing gastrointestinal illness by following these preventive steps:

· Wash hands frequently, especially after going to the bathroom, changing diapers, before eating and prior to preparing food
· Carefully wash fruits and vegetables, and cook foods thoroughly before eating them
· Thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness by using a bleach-based household cleaner
· Immediately remove and wash clothing or linens that may be contaminated with the virus after an episode of illness (use hot water and soap)
· Flush or discard any vomit and/or stool in the toilet and make sure that the surrounding area is kept clean

Persons infected with a gastrointestinal illness should not prepare food while they have symptoms and for three days after they recover from their illness. Food that may have been contaminated by an ill person should be thrown away.

Although very uncomfortable, most gastrointestinal illnesses have no long term health effects. However, individuals with significant health concerns may wish to contact their private physician if they become ill.
For additional information, residents can contact the Hernando County Health Department at 352-540-6817.