A mysterious stomach illness has sickened about 200 college students in Pennsylvania, school officials announced. Though the source of the illness is yet to be confirmed, the school plans to resume regular classes today after being cancelled for two consecutive days in the past week.
The stomach bug sickened students at Ursinus College and sent nearly two dozen to the hospital. The affected students first reported symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting on the evening of Feb. 9. The school then prompted to close its Wismer Dining Hall the day after to pave way for the inspection by the Montgomery County Department of Health.
"I encourage any students or staff experiencing symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain to be particularly careful about dehydration and to seek medical care," Dr. Valerie Arkoosh, Interim Medical Director of the Montgomery County Health Department, said in a statement.
Ursinus College is working with MCHD officials to determine the cause of the illness. As a precaution and abiding by the recommendations made by MCHD, the dining area was closed until further notice and the school coordinated with local restaurants to serve as dining alternative to students.
"On Thursday, Feb. 11, two inspectors with the Montgomery County Health Department conducted a comprehensive review of the Wismer Dining Facility. That report — the latest conducted by the health department — has just been posted this morning, Saturday, Feb. 13," Ursinus College posted in its advisory.
"The health department has confirmed again this morning that Ursinus is in full compliance with the department's recommendations," the school added.
By Sunday, the rates of illness reports reduced dramatically. There were only fewer than 10 students who fell ill over the weekend and most students who became ill reported that the disease ran its course within just 12 to 24 hours.
All areas in the school campus including the cafeteria have been cleaned, disinfected and sanitized. School officials have encouraged their students to maintain the cleanliness of their rooms and to practice good hygiene. Sanitizer dispensers will also be installed in specific areas in the campus.
"Ursinus' first priority is the health and well-being of our students," said President Brock Blomberg.
"We will continue to work closely with officials from the Department of Health and follow their recommendations. In addition, Ursinus couldn't be more grateful for the outpouring of support it has received from the surrounding community to help us support our students," he added.
Photo: Montgomery County Planning Commission | Flickr
