Update to Wellness Alert
There has been a significant slowdown in the number of students and staff experiencing illness this week. Earlier this week, we reported an unusual number of people with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. We do not believe it was COVID-related.
We continue to work closely with the Monroe County Department of Health to identify the cause and source. We have not identified any areas of clear concern. Out of extra precaution, many public areas with high use around campus have undergone additional deep cleanings to reduce risks.
It is important that everyone remain vigilant to prevent any further spread. If you become ill in the bathroom or other public area, please reach out to the RIT Service Center: 585-475-5000 or 1-833-323-0002 and request Facilities Management Services (FMS) to come and do a special cleaning. If you live in RIT Housing and become ill in your room, you may get cleaning spray from the Kate Gleason Hall service desk: 11am – 11pm
Here are some tips if you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea:
- It’s important to keep hydrated. Drink plenty of clear fluids. If you’re vomiting, start slow (small sips) and gradually increase the amount you drink.
- Do not eat or drink anything for 1 to 2 hours after the last episode of vomiting. Then try ice chips or small amounts of water.
- Other good options include ginger ale, sports drinks, caffeine-free flat soda, diluted fruit juices, or clear broth.
- Increase fluids as tolerated. After 12 hours without vomiting, try small amounts of bland foods, such as rice, potatoes, crackers, pretzels, dry toast, applesauce, cream-less soups, bananas.
- After bland food is tolerated for 12 hours, resume a regular diet as tolerated.
The following may be more difficult to digest during the next 24-48 hours:
- Milk and other dairy products
- Alcohol
- Raw fruits and vegetables
- Spicy or fatty foods
Pay special attention to handwashing with soap and water, especially after toilet visits and before eating or preparing food. Thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness. While nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are usually not harmful on their own, they can become dangerous. Contact a medical provider if you notice any of the following:
- Signs of dehydration such as increased thirst, dry lips or mouth, dizziness when standing up or walking
- Weakness or abdominal pain for more than two hours
- Nausea that lasts for more than three days
- Vomiting that lasts for more than one day
- Lack of urination for more than 12 hours
- Diarrhea for more than 48 hours in adults
- Intense pain in the abdomen
- Stools that have blood or pus or that are black and super-sticky
- Fever over 101 degrees
- Persons with insulin-dependent diabetes should monitor glucose and ketones as per their “diabetes sick day” plan.
While individual cases may persist, please stay home and do not attend class or go to work if you are ill.
For students who may feel ill, contact RIT Student Health Center: 585-475-2255. There is a nurse available after hours and on weekends. Any employee experiencing symptoms should reach out to their primary care provider.