Gastrointestinal illnesses involving nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common illnesses in the general and University population. The majority of these illnesses are due to a viral infection (such as norovirus, rotavirus, and adenovirus) which are spread from person to person via contact with an infected person’s vomit or stool (poop).
To prevent these illnesses, people should practice good hand hygiene, washing vigorously with soap and water for 20 seconds at points throughout the day. People should especially wash after using the restroom and prior to eating a meal. People who are ill should practice good hand hygiene, disinfect their bathroom after each use, and should stay home until their vomiting has subsided and other symptoms are improving. People who work in the healthcare or food service industries should check with their medical care provider prior to returning to work to ensure that they are no longer contagious.
A medical evaluation is not typically necessary for those who are ill with a gastrointestinal illness. A person’s immune system typically resolves the infection, with symptoms typically resolving within 3 days. Please click the link under “Helpful Resources” on this page to view more information about caring for a gastrointestinal illness.
Gastrointestinal illness evaluation and treatment services are available to all students at Student Health Services (Myrtle residence hall ground floor).