Prevent the Spread of Gastroenteritis ("Stomach Bug")

The Health Service at The College of Saint Rose is seeing an increase in the number of students presenting with symptoms of gastroenteritis. You may also know it as the “stomach bug”; noroviruses are commonly the cause of such illness. Noroviruses are the most common cause of gastroenteritis in the U.S. and can spread quickly. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Occasionally, there may be a fever and abdominal cramping involved.

Here are some tips to decrease your risk:

IMAGE TITLEWash your hands frequently. Hands need to be washed after each time you use the bathroom and before eating. Use soap, warm water and paper towels. Use the paper towel to turn off the faucets and to open the bathroom door. Also, keep hands away from your face. Most “stomach bugs” are transmitted by getting a microscopic amount of the germ into your mouth!

•Keep areas clean.
 Increased efforts are being made through our facilities department to sanitize common areas and bathroom facilities. You can reduce the risk of transmission further by wiping down surfaces in your room with a sanitizing wipe, like Clorox wipes.

•Take care of your immune system
. Get plenty of sleep. Avoid alcohol and tobacco and eat a healthy, low sugar diet. Regular exercise has also been proven to boost the immune system.

•Wash laundry thoroughly. Wash clothing and bedding immediately after becoming soiled. Wash with detergent at the maximum cycle and machine dry.

Gastroenteritis will usually resolve on its own in 24 – 72 hours although in rare cases illness lasting 4-6 days can occur. You need to re-hydrate yourself SLOWLY with sips of flat soda or Gatorade. Stick to a clear liquid diet for the first 24 hours. Do not try to eat until you can keep fluids down for 8 hours.

If you are having any abdominal pain, are unable to keep down any fluids over an 8 hour period, or if you feel dizzy or faint while the health service is open, please come in for evaluation. If you develop symptoms after hours contact your Resident Assistant or Security for assistance. With a little extra care you can help to remain healthy through the semester.

If you are experiencing symptoms of gastroenteritis please contact the Health Service at (518) 454-5244 and avoid exposing others until you are symptom-free for 72 hours.


Campus Security / 518-454-5187