Health Alert

Dr. Jeffrey Goldstein, director of health services, sent the message below to the campus community on Saturday, March 5. It was also sent to parents.

Dear members of the campus community:

Over the past several days, we have seen an increase in the number of students who have become ill with fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Although Lafayette has seen only a limited number of students with these symptoms, other colleges in the region have recently reported an outbreak of an extremely contagious stomach virus. The infection can cause serious symptoms; intractable vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration. These viruses spread quickly from person to person especially in crowded places such as college dormitories and classrooms. People become infected by eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with the virus, touching surfaces that have the virus, or having direct contact with an infected person.

There is no specific treatment for the virus. Most people feel better in a couple of days. The best way to prevent dehydration is to drink enough liquids to replace the fluid lost from vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases it may be necessary to replace fluids intravenously and take medication to alleviate the nausea.

Plant Operations will continue to ensure a high standard of cleaning practices with germicides and disinfectants which are effective in killing the virus that can live on surfaces for several hours. We encourage students and staff to use disposable germicidal wipes to clean personal areas including counters, door knobs, keyboards, handles, bathrooms and spaces that can harbor germs.

Here are some additional tips to stop the spread of a contagious stomach virus:

1.  If you experience any of the symptoms described above, even if they seem mild, do not attend class or come to work for 48 hours.
2.  If you are feeling ill, it is important to avoid close contact with others and do not attend social events, athletic practice, or meetings.
3.  Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers especially before preparing food for others, before eating, after using the bathroom, and after using exercise equipment.
4.  After recovery from an illness, wash your linens and clothing thoroughly and avoid contaminating surfaces with items that have been soiled.

The College will continue to monitor the number of students with these symptoms. Key stakeholders on campus have discussed and implemented a number of strategies to keep our campus safe. Bailey Health Center remains in close contact with local health resources. Our campus community working together can help to ensure a healthy environment by reinforcing behaviors that prevent the spread of infection. Be well, stay informed, and stay positive.

Sincerely,
Jeffrey Goldstein, MD
Director of Health Services