The municipal epidemiological surveillance issued an epidemiological alert for outbreaks of ADD (acute diarrheal disease) in Chapeco, in the west of Santa Catarina. According to the agency, an increase in the incidence of 170% was detected last week, and by 139% the previous week.

In Chapeco, an outbreak of acute diarrhea is a concern – Photo: Internet/ND

The Health Surveillance Strategic Information Center also warned the Public and Private Health Network on Tuesday (13) of the need for community guidance, increased vaccination of 2- to 4-month-old children against rotavirus, and for health care workers to be aware of disease outbreaks and the need for notifications.

According to the head of the Sanitary Inspection Service in Chapeco, Rodrigo Momoli, it is recommended to clean the water tank at least once a year, wash your hands thoroughly or disinfect them with gel alcohol, wash food well, avoid excess salt, avoid contact with sick or symptomatic people and, if they are sick, stay still, avoiding work or school.

According to epidemiologists, the disease, which is characteristic of underdeveloped countries, often affects children under 5 years of age. Kindergartens and school facilities are the most common locations for such outbreaks.

Symptoms include diarrhea, which may or may not be accompanied by abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. It can cause severe malnutrition and dehydration and, if left untreated, can lead to death, so medical attention should be sought as soon as the first symptoms appear.

What is DDA?

Acute diarrheal disease is a syndrome caused by various etiological agents (bacteria, viruses and parasites), the predominant manifestation of which is an increase in the number of bowel movements. Symptoms can last from 2 to 14 days. The clinical form varies from mild to severe, with dehydration and electrolyte disturbances, especially when combined with malnutrition.

Transmission can occur by the faecal-oral route, as well as by direct transmission from person to person (for example, contaminated hands) and from animals to humans, and indirect transmission can also occur – ingestion of contaminated water, food and contact with contaminated objects. , (e.g. kitchen utensils, bathroom accessories, hospital equipment).

Food handlers, in addition to vectors such as flies, ants and cockroaches, can contaminate mainly food and utensils. Acute diarrheal diseases can be of infectious and non-infectious origin.