At least 60 University of Guelph students sick as 'cluster of illness' hits residence

A sign is seen at the entrance to the University of Guelph on Friday, March 24, 2017. (THE CANADIAN PRESS / Hannah Yoon)

The University of Guelph is dealing with what they are calling a ‘cluster of illness’ among students living in residence.

In an email to CTV News on Wednesday, the school confirmed approximately 60 students have self-reported cases of gastroenteritis.

The first cases were reported late Monday night.

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation or swelling of the stomach and intestines that can cause vomiting and diarrhea. It can be caused by a variety of viruses, including Norovirus and Rotavirus.

Symptoms can include abdominal cramps, headache, muscle aches and a low-grade fever. Symptoms usually begin 1 to 3 days after an infection and can last up to 10 days.

The sickness can spread easily through close contact with infected individuals or by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces, foods or drinks.

The university said staff are working with Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health on best practices and next steps.

In an email to CTV News on Wednesday, public health said, “WDG Public Health is aware of a large number of cases of gastroenteritis at the University of Guelph. This number has been increasing over the course of the investigation. This is impacting students on campus, but we also believe some off campus students are affected.”

Public health is trying to identify the source of the illness and said everyone who has been affected appears to be recovering well and quickly.

Student Housing Services and Custodial Services teams are also trying to limit the spread with enhanced cleaning protocols, including thorough cleaning of doorknobs and washroom surfaces, and custodians are wearing protective equipment as they move through infected areas.

As of Wednesday afternoon, most of the cases reported at South Residence, but there have been other individual cases reported in other student accommodations.

How to prevent illness

The university recommends a few steps to help mitigate risk when it comes to gastro-related illnesses.

Students are encouraged to:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds
• Clean and disinfect hard surfaces with bleach-based solutions
• Anyone experiencing symptoms is urged to avoid populated areas and try to isolate or reduce contact with other people until symptoms end
• Reach out to professors to discuss academic consideration options

Public health encourages anyone experiencing symptoms to stay home for at least 48 hours after their last bout of vomiting or diarrhea.

Updates will be posted on the University of Guelph's website.