Wellness Alert
In the past 24-48 hours, we have seen an unusual number of people with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. We do not believe it is COVID-related. We are working directly with Monroe County Public Health Department to identify the cause and source and take appropriate measures while keeping you updated. If you are ill, please stay home and do not attend class or go to work.
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
Viruses causing nausea and vomiting are spread easily. 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.
*Students, contact RIT Student Health Center through the Wellness Portal chat or by calling 585-475-2255. There is a nurse available after hours.
*Employees, if you are experiencing symptoms, reach out to your primary care provider.