Health officials in Andalucia have issued a warning ahead of the Easter weekend after a spike in cases of viral gastroenteritis – commonly known as ‘stomach flu’ – across the region.
In a statement released at the start of Semana Santa, the Junta de Andalucia urged residents and visitors to take basic precautions to avoid infection, describing the illness as ‘highly contagious’.
The illness, typically caused by a virus, spreads easily through direct contact with infected people or contaminated surfaces.
It can affect all age groups and usually comes on suddenly, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
In most cases, it clears up within a few days, but authorities are keen to limit its spread during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Key advice to avoid infection
Health officials are stressing simple hygiene measures as the best line of defence.
That includes frequent handwashing with soap and water, particularly after using the toilet and before handling food, as well as disinfecting surfaces using diluted bleach.
Anyone showing symptoms is advised to avoid preparing food for others.
What to do if you catch it
There is no specific treatment or vaccine for this type of gastroenteritis, but most cases can be managed at home.
Doctors recommend staying well hydrated with water, broths or rehydration solutions, avoiding alcohol and sugary drinks, eating lightly and getting plenty of rest.
When to seek medical help
While symptoms are usually mild, the Junta warns people to seek medical attention if:
- Symptoms last more than three days,
- Vomiting prevents you from keeping fluids down,
- There is blood in stools,
- Or the illness affects vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly or those with underlying health conditions.
Signs of dehydration, including dizziness, dry mouth or reduced urination, should also not be ignored.
With thousands of people travelling, attending processions and gathering in large crowds across Andalucia this week, officials are keen to prevent further spread.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
