Western Health is warning of an outbreak of gastrointestinal illness on the province’s west coast.

Symptoms include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, headache and fever.

The illness is highly contagious and is easily spread from one person to another.

Western Health is advising people to wash their hands frequently with liquid soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds after using the washroom, and before eating or handling food.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of a gastrointestinal illness, stay home. You should only return to work, school or daycare two days after symptoms have cleared.

Those who are ill are also asked to stay away from hospitals, long term care home and personal care homes until 48 hours after symptoms have cleared.

View the list of current visitor restrictions at west coast hospitals at this link.