State health director Dr Asits Sanna said samples had been collected to identify the cause of the outbreak, Bernama reported.

“So far, 19 clinical samples have been collected from those admitted to Tenom Hospital, with 16 testing positive for rotavirus.”

He said 191 residents in the Tenom district had fallen sick, with 37 admitted to hospital.

Asits said 33 patients had been discharged and only four remained in hospital. They are reported to be in stable condition.

The other 154 affected victims were given outpatient treatment.

Asits said the Tenom district health office first identified an increase in gastroenteritis cases in the district on June 4.

The Sabah water department was notified to take action by monitoring the chlorination of treated water in the area.

Asits said rotavirus infection is an intestinal infection in children, with symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting and fever, which can lead to dehydration.

“If prompt treatment is not provided, it can be fatal,” he warned.

He said preventive measures include maintaining personal hygiene, frequent handwashing, cooking food properly and thoroughly, using safe and clean water, drinking boiled water and seeking immediate treatment if experiencing symptoms of diarrhoea.