Acute gastroenteritis has been identified in several children and adults in the Federation over the previous few weeks (AGE).
The frequent infectious disease syndrome known as acute gastroenteritis (AGE) is characterized by irritation and inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which can result in a range of symptoms including fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea.
The most common cause of AGE is a virus, but it can also be caused by bacteria. AGE is brought on by a variety of infectious agents or germs.
This AGE outbreak is not exclusive to St. Kitts and Nevis; rather, a comparable pattern is seen in a number of CARICOM members.
The number of reported cases of AGE in both children and adults has increased across many nations, according to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).
According to epidemiological data, Norovirus is the most likely culprit behind this multi-nation AGE outbreak. The UK Health Security Agency reported a dramatic rise in confirmed norovirus cases in recent weeks.
Norovirus has been detected on multiple cruise ships visiting the Caribbean. Only laboratory tests can establish the presence of norovirus. On March 27, 2023, samples were forwarded to CARPHA for examination.
