Child's death unrelated to mass gastro outbreak
The death of a young child is not related to a mass outbreak of gastroenteritis at a Sydney childcare centre, NSW Health says.
Although the cause of death has not yet been confirmed, six children aged 11 months to four years who attend Little Zak's childcare centre in Artarmon have had gastroenteritis.
Four of the six children were hospitalised. Two have since been released from hospital.
Little Zak's childcare centre in Artarmon has since released a statement.
It read, “Everyone at our Artarmon Centre has been deeply saddened by this news and our directors have been in contact with the family of the child to offer our sincerest thoughts and condolences and to offer any support we can.
“Please be assured our Artarmon Centre is fully accredited and compliant with all health and regulatory requirements, and we endeavour at all times to operate to the highest standards of care and hygiene.”
The children developed high fevers and vomiting over the last week caused by rotavirus gastroenteritis.
The Public Health Unit is working with specialist pediatricians to understand the cause of death of the child.
Dr Michael Staff, Director Northern Sydney Public Health Unit said, "Tragically, another child who also attends the centre died in hospital on 23 October, but at this stage it appears unrelated to the gastroenteritis outbreak."
Reports suggest parents at the centre were unaware of the tragedy.
Gastroenteritis, also called ‘gastro’, is a common illness that can cause vomiting and diarrhoea. Many types of gastro are easily spread. According to Health Direct, it is not usually serious but it can make you very dehydrated. Milder forms can be managed at home by drinking fluids.
All parents of children at the childcare centre have been provided with health information and advice.
