Viral Gastroenteritis

Viral Gastroenteritis, commonly called the Norovirus

The Boston Public Health Commission has noted an increase in gastroenteritis throughout the city in the last several weeks. Outbreaks are typically seen in the fall and winter months and are often linked to viruses. If you develop symptoms of nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, you should report this to Health Services at 617-264-7678. Emmanuel has not experience an outbreak of the viral gastroenteritis this year.

Below is information on symptoms and prevention:

• Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis often include moderate to severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Symptoms typically begin 1-2 days after exposure and last 1-2 days in most people.
• People become infected with viral gastroenteritis by: eating food or drinking liquids contaminated by an infected person, eating uncooked shellfish that has been harvested from contaminated waters, and touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then touching their mouth or eating without washing their hands first. Viral gastroenteritis can be transmitted to others from onset of illness until several days after symptoms resolve.
• When people are ill with vomiting and diarrhea, they should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
•  For most people this is not a serious illness. However, it can be a serious problem for people who are not able to drink enough fluids to replace what is lost through vomiting and diarrhea.
• Good hand hygiene will help prevent transmission of infection. It is important to wash your hands after using the toilet, changing diapers and before eating or preparing food.
• To properly clean your hands use soap and warm water, rub hands for 20 seconds, rinse and dry with a paper towel. Use the paper towel to turn off the faucet.
•  When soap and water are not available use an alcohol-based gel hand sanitizer.
  Please be assured that the College will take immediate steps to address the situation as needed.
  More information on gastroenteritis is available on the BPHC's website:http://www.bphc.org