The University of Guelph has identified a cluster of students living in residence who are experiencing the abdominal illness gastroenteritis.
The first cases were reported Monday. As of Wednesday afternoon, about 60 people have self-identified as being sick with the virus, the university told CBC News in an email.
According to Health Ontario, viral gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, adding:
- It’s often referred to as a stomach flu or stomach bug.
- The virus is usually spread through food or water, meaning it can contaminate food or an item used in food preparation.
- It can also be spread from person to person through close contact.
Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea and belly discomfort or pain.
Treatment for viral gastroenteritis is minimal and involves ensuring people who are affected don’t get dehydrated.
School working with public health
In a statement on the university’s website, it says school officials are working with Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health on next steps to address the situation.
“Student wellness and student housing teams are actively working to prevent the spread of viruses, including enhanced cleaning of surfaces, and providing education and awareness to students to protect themselves and their residence communities,” university media relations officer Katherine Hill said in the email.
Hill said the majority of cases are in South Residence, with a few cases reported in other residences.
The university says it will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on its website as necessary.