Health authorities warn those who went to Estoteric Festival to be on alert for symptoms of gastro after outbreak

An outbreak of an infectious disease at a major festival has prompted health authorities to issue a warning.

Festivalgoers who attended an event in regional Victoria are being warned to remain vigilant for symptoms of a highly infectious disease after an outbreak was detected.

Those who attended the Esoteric Festival in Donald from March 8 to 12 could be at risk of developing symptoms of shigella gastroenteritis in the coming days.

Symptoms of the disease can include diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting, according to a Department of Health warning issued on Thursday.

An outbreak of gastro at a Victorian festival has prompted health authorities to issue a warning. Picture: Supplied

The department confirmed the gastro outbreak was among both staff and patrons of the festival.

“People who attended Esoteric Festival who have symptoms should get tested for shigella with a stool sample,” chief health officer Ben Cowie said.

“Shigella gastroenteritis is generally a self-limiting infection but is highly contagious and can be potentially serious.”

The bowel infection can be transmitted through the faecal-oral route or contaminated food, according to the department.

Symptoms of the disease can include diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting. Picture: Esoteric Festival

Anyone who has contracted the disease and works as a food handler or childcare worker or works in a residential facility is warned not to return to work until advised.

Symptoms of the disease typically develop one to three days following exposure but can occur within 12 hours or as late as one week after exposure.

The department said treatment for gastro includes ample fluids and oral rehydration and in more severe cases can include antibiotic treatment.

Originally published as Health authorities warn those who went to Estoteric Festival to be on alert for symptoms of gastro after outbreak