Urgent health warning issued over viral bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting amid fears of spread in children

Letters have been sent to parents and staff at educational settings in Swansea and Carmarthenshire areas, providing crucial guidance on how to protect themselves and others in their care during the outbreak.

Local environmental health authorities are currently working to contain the spread of the illness.

Gastroenteritis is a very common condition that primarily causes diarrhoea and vomiting, according to the NHS.

The illness can affect people of any age, though it is particularly common in young children.

The condition is typically caused by a bacterial or viral tummy bug.

Public health officials are particularly concerned about its spread in educational and childcare settings, where children are in close contact with one another.

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The health authority has issued strict guidance for educational settings, stating that anyone experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting must be sent home immediately.

Students and staff members cannot return to school or childcare settings until they have been symptom-free for 48 hours.

The health authority emphasised the critical importance of hand hygiene, particularly after using the toilet.

Those experiencing symptoms have been advised to avoid preparing food for others.

Officials are urging anyone who becomes unwell with diarrhoea or vomiting to contact their GP or local health service to provide a faeces sample.

Medical advice should be sought if symptoms begin to worsen or if individuals have concerns about their condition.

Concerned individuals can contact Public Health Wales' AWARE team on 0300 003 0032 for additional information.