A small campus can mean greater interaction with peers and faculty, but bringing the spread of bacteria and viruses into that equation can make a
small campus feel a little too friendly. Bacteria and viruses are much more capable of spreading across the student body on a small campus than at a larger one, if given the chance.
At least two students on Capital’s campus were infected with viral gastroenteritis, or the intestinal flu, before midterm break and both left campus until their illness subsided to avoid infecting other individuals on campus. This form of the flu can be caused by a variety of viruses, but the resulting symptoms and treatments are similar.
The main symptoms are watery diarrhea and vomiting, accompanied by headache, fever and abdominal cramps. The onset of symptoms occurs one to two days after an individual is infected, but the recovery time varies from one to ten days depending on which virus infected the individual.
“If you are around anyone who is sick, avoid them. Try to come to the health center as soon as possible,” Andrea McEnaney, office coordinator for the Center of Health and Wellness, said.
If any student is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is strongly recommended that they see a doctor. If the diagnosis is confirmed, the infected individual should avoid direct contact with other individuals, as well as staying very hydrated.
“A bland food diet is also recommended, such as bananas, white rice, and dry toast” McEnaney said.
Unfortunately, other than following these healthy guidelines, nothing can really be done for the student except to wait for the symptoms to subside. While typically not a deadly illness, it is definitely not a pleasant one, according to affected individuals.
The best methods to avoid contracting the illness is to follow a healthy, clean lifestyle, including washing hands often, keeping objects such as doorknobs that are used the most often clean and avoid contact with infected individuals, McEnaney said.