Ithaca College

Contributed on behalf of Erin Hall-Rhoades, MD, Acting Director

The Hammond Health Center has received reports that a number of students on campus have stomach flu.  When we have this illness on campus, it can spread quickly.  Handwashing is the key to prevention.  Here is some additional information as well.  And, as always, if you have a health concern or question, please contact the Hammond Health Center at 607-274-3177 to speak with a health provider.

What is viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu, stomach bug)? — Viral gastroenteritis is an infection that can cause diarrhea and vomiting. It happens when a person’s stomach and intestines get infected with a virus.

People can get the infection if they:

· Touch an infected person or a surface with the virus on it, and then don’t wash their hands

· Eat foods or drink liquids with the virus in them. If people with the virus don’t wash their hands, they can spread it to food or liquids they touch.

What are the symptoms of viral gastroenteritis? — The infection causes diarrhea and vomiting. People can have either diarrhea or vomiting, or both. These symptoms usually start suddenly, and can be severe.

Viral gastroenteritis can also cause:

· A fever

· A headache or muscle aches

· Belly pain or cramping

· A loss of appetite

Is there anything I can do on my own to feel better? — Yes. People with viral gastroenteritis need to drink enough fluids so they don’t get dehydrated.

Some fluids help prevent dehydration better than others:

· Older children and adults can drink sports drinks.

If you can keep food down, it’s best to eat fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain breads and cereals. Avoid eating foods with a lot of fat or sugar, which can make symptoms worse.

Should I call the doctor or nurse? — Call the Hammond Health Center (607-274-3177) if you:

· Have diarrhea or vomiting that lasts longer than a few days

· Have severe belly pain, vomit blood or have blood in stools

· Have concerns about dehydration

· Have any questions about how to help your symptoms

How is viral gastroenteritis treated? — Most people do not need any treatment, because their symptoms will get better on their own.

Doctors do not treat viral gastroenteritis with antibiotics because antibiotics treat infections that are caused by bacteria – not viruses.