Between late Sunday, April 13 and Monday, April 14, a total of 37 University of Denver students became ill with symptoms that included vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps and dehydration. Of those reporting symptoms, 13 have been treated at University Health, and 24 have been seen at Porter Adventist Hospital, with seven admitted to Porter. No students have experienced permanent health damage.
Dr. Sam Alexander, executive director of University Health and Counseling Service, is working with the Denver Public Health department to investigate the cause of the illness. Denver Public Health has inspected Centennial Halls, where many of the ill students live and eat, and has found no food contamination or violations of food handling protocol. Denver Public Health officials are investigating the possibility of viral causes and have found no safety issues in Centennial Hall dining areas.
Alexander says other residence hall dining areas are unaffected, and it is safe for students to eat at all DU residence halls.
Because the cause of the illness is still unknown, students are urged to wash their hands regularly, especially after visiting the restroom. Students experiencing stomach cramps or other symptoms should contact University Health at 303-871-2205 or call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
As more information becomes available, the University will take all appropriate measures to ensure the health and safety of students, staff and faculty.
To read a previous story about the student illnesses, click here.