The University of Guelph is grappling with a growing gastroenteritis outbreak, with 243 self-reported cases confirmed as of Jan 21, 2025. Although the outbreak is spreading at a slower rate than initially feared, concerns remain over the potential for the virus to spread to the University of Guelph-Humber (UofGH) campus in Etobicoke. The two campuses share a student body and staff, with students enrolled at the University of Guelph able to take courses at UofGH as visiting students. UofGH students, many of whom commute from different areas, pose an additional risk for wider transmission.
Gastroenteritis, typically caused by the highly contagious norovirus, leads to inflammation in the stomach and intestines, resulting in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Though most individuals recover without complications, the virus can spread rapidly in environments where people are in close contact, such as university campuses.
Emily Pasad, a second-year student at the University of Guelph, recently recovered from gastroenteritis. “It started with nausea and stomach discomfort, and then it hit me like a ton of bricks,” Pasad said. “The vomiting and diarrhea came on so suddenly, I could barely make it to the bathroom.”
The outbreak at the University of Guelph began earlier this month, initially affecting students in residence halls and dining facilities. It has since spread to classrooms and common spaces, prompting concerns from health officials about the virus’s potential to infect a larger number of students, especially those who commute between campuses.
Though no cases have yet been reported at UofGH, the shared student body and commuting students raise concerns that the virus could soon spread to the Etobicoke campus. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation and urging students to be vigilant about hygiene to stay home if they show symptoms.
Pasad described how the virus impacted her studies. “I was in bed for days, trying to stay hydrated, but I was too weak to even read. Missing lectures and assignments made it even more stressful,” she said. “I was also worried about spreading it to others. It’s such a fast-moving virus, and in a shared living space like a dorm, it’s nearly impossible to contain.”
The Public Health Agency of Canada emphasizes that good hygiene is key to preventing the spread of gastroenteritis. It recommends frequent hand washing, especially after using shared spaces like bathrooms and cafeterias, as well as disinfecting personal items such as phones, laptops, and desks. Students are also urged to stay home if they exhibit symptoms of gastroenteritis and avoid close contact with others until they are symptom-free.
Despite the concerns, health officials are hopeful that increased awareness and adherence to preventive measures will contain the outbreak before it spreads further. Both the University of Guelph and University of Guelph-Humber are working to ensure students understand how to protect themselves and their peer
Leslie Furlonge, Associate Director of Clinical Services at Humber Polytechnic, spoke about the campus’s approach to managing potential outbreaks. “Communication during an outbreak is key,” Furlonge said. “We utilize the Emergency Response protocol to ensure consistent and timely messaging and involve the communications team for campus-wide notifications.”
Furlonge also outlined the steps that would be taken in the event of an outbreak. “If an outbreak were to happen, the campus would consult and take direction from Toronto Public Health,” and if necessary implement an emergency response plan.
Regarding health protocols, Furlonge advised that students and staff should contact the Facilities department for updates on cleaning procedures. “For general information about Humber health protocols, contact the facilities department to check if cleaning protocols have changed based on the outbreak at Guelph-Humber,” she added.
For more information on norovirus, Furlonge directed individuals to the Toronto Public Health Norovirus Fact Sheet
Students and staff who suspect they may have contracted gastroenteritis are encouraged to contact campus health services for guidance on next steps. Campuses are reinforcing sanitation efforts in high-traffic areas and advising students to report any symptoms immediately to avoid further outbreaks.
How to Prevent the Spread of Gastroenteritis on Campus
As the gastroenteritis outbreak continues at the University of Guelph, students and staff are urged to take extra precautions to minimize the risk of spreading the virus. Here are key steps to stay healthy:
- Wash hands frequently: Use soap and water, especially after using shared spaces like bathrooms and cafeterias.
- Avoid close contact: If you experience symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, stay home until you are symptom-free to prevent spreading the virus.
- Stay hydrated: If you’re feeling ill, make sure to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
Report symptoms early: If you suspect you’ve contracted gastroenteritis, notify campus health services or visit the nearest emergency room for guidance.
Contact Information
University of Guelph Health Services: 519-824-4120 x52131
University of Guelph-Humber Wellness Centre: Room: Learning Resource Commons – 2nd Floor
Phone: 416-675-5090
*Photo, Sara Shimazaki, Pexels, Creative Commons License
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