Inskip Pt camping areas close due to gastro outbreak
A recent severe outbreak of gastroenteritis among campers at Inskip Point on the Cooloola Coast continues to plague the region’s most popular beach and camping getaway.
Gympie
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Queensland Parks and Wildlife announced on Wednesday it would temporarily close Sarawak and Sarawak West camping areas at Inskip Point as part of the ongoing strategy to prevent the spread of gastroenteritis.
A man almost died during a recent severe outbreak of gastro at Inskip, during which more than 80 people complained to Queensland Health.
The camping areas will be closed from Friday, November 19 until Friday, December 3, 2021. Camper numbers will also be capped to existing bookings only in the remaining camping areas during this time.
The closure of the camping areas and capping camper numbers are being implemented to rest the camping areas before the school holidays.
The decision is the result of monitoring and ongoing mitigation measures implemented by QPWS and Queensland Health to fine tune its response as evidence came to hand.
“QPWS continues to work with Queensland Health and the Gympie Regional Council to reduce the risks and impacts on campers and mitigate the spread of gastroenteritis at Inskip Point,” a DES statement released on Wednesday read.
“People are reminded that good personal hygiene is fundamental to prevent getting sick or spreading infection.
“This includes thoroughly washing hands with soap and running water after using bathroom facilities and before preparing food.
“Rangers are visiting Inskip Point camping areas to provide advice, and all campers are aware of the outbreak and the need for good personal hygiene.
“Inskip facilities are being cleaned regularly as per Queensland Health guidelines.”
“Campers are reminded to:
- Maintain the highest standards of personal hygiene
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water particularly after toilet visits and before preparing food or eating.
- Bring your own water supply, soap, and if possible, bring your own portable toilet
- Ensure every camper has their own personal towel for hand drying
- Maintain safe physical distancing
- Make sure you have a face mask at all times and wear it if you can’t maintain social distancing measures
“QPWS apologises for any inconvenience, but the health and safety of people in our camping areas is our number one priority. “
People who want to change their booking to another camping area have until 12 noon on Monday, November 22. Bookings can also be cancelled, with a full refund.
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