Inskip gastro outbreak subject of joint Qld Health, DES investigation

Days after confronting photos of a Queensland grandfather on life support emerged, bookings for parts of the popular Inskip Point camp site have been closed as government officials officially declare a gastro ‘outbreak’ at Inskip.

More than 80 campers who have recently stayed at Inskip Point’s Sarawak campsite have come forward with gastroenteritis symptoms.

Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service public health physician Dr Rod McClure said norovirus had been identified as the cause and evidence of disease transmission at the site has prompted the move to officially declare a gastro outbreak.

Dr McClure said the public health unit continued to work closely with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to provide ongoing disease surveillance, hand hygiene education to campers and oversight of enhanced cleaning activities.

“Our ongoing disease surveillance will ensure we have the evidence we need to solve the problem,” he said

Noroviruses are a group of viruses that can cause gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines) with diarrhoea, stomach pain and vomiting.

“Most cases resolve without treatment. It is very important to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. If you are very unwell, see your doctor, who will advise if you need any treatment,” Dr McClure said.

“The best prevention against gastroenteritis is really good personal hygiene. It is important to wash your hands especially after visiting the toilet, changing nappies and before eating or preparing food.”

A campaign to have the Inskip Point campgrounds closed following a near-fatal case of gastro which left a south east Queensland grandfather on life support triggered a joint investigation into the situation at Inksip.

The Department of Environment and Science joined forces with Queensland Health to find out what caused the outbreak at the Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area campgrounds.

Campers visiting the peninsula have been urged to make personal hygiene their top priority, and to bring their own portable toilets if possible.

“Campgrounds remain open, however, we are not taking any new bookings at the two Sarawack camping areas until November 15 as a precaution,” a DES spokesperson said.

“As we approach Christmas school holidays, we are taking a proactive approach and are working with Queensland Health,” they said.

Extra rangers have been rostered on to provide additional campground services and advice where needed to ensure the health and wellbeing of campers already on Inskip.

“Rangers and contract cleaners have been deep cleaning the amenities at Inskip in a two-step cleaning and disinfecting process, as per Queensland Health guidelines, to help minimise the risks of viral transmission this season,” the DES spokesperson said.

“Rangers are increasing the frequency of cleaning as a further precaution and amenities will have increased soap and sanitising supplies, but the best advice is for campers is to bring their own and be self-sufficient.

“QPWS has been liaising regularly with Queensland Health about measures to reduce the risks and impacts of illness on campers.

“We are keeping a close eye on the situation and are constantly reviewing the outbreak as information comes to hand.”