Norovirus Likely Behind University of Guelph Outbreak: Nearby Campuses Step Up Precautions

courtesy University of Guelph News

by Zane Cherniak

The gastroenteritis outbreak at the University of Guelph continues to grow, with 234 cases reported. Public health officials have identified norovirus as the likely cause, with most cases stemming from South Residence, though reports have come from other areas on and off campus.

Norovirus, often referred to as the “winter vomiting disease,” spreads rapidly in close quarters. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach cramps, with some experiencing fever and fatigue. The virus is notoriously resilient, lingering on surfaces and spreading via poor hygiene, according to Lawrence Goodridge, a U of G professor and Canada Research Chair in Foodborne Pathogen Dynamics.

“It’s not airborne,” said Goodridge, “but if surfaces aren’t cleaned properly after someone vomits, the virus can survive and spread when others touch those areas and then their mouths.”

The outbreak has prompted swift action on campus, including increased cleaning protocols and temporary pauses on large social events. However, concerns linger beyond Guelph’s borders as nearby institutions, including York University and Seneca College, keep a watchful eye on the situation.

Students React at York and Seneca

Many students at York University and Seneca Polytechnic are already taking precautions to avoid a similar outbreak on their campuses.

“When I heard about Guelph, it definitely made me think twice about sharing food or drinks with anyone,” said Tessa Margaux, a second-year York student. “I’ve started carrying hand sanitizer everywhere, and I’m telling my friends to do the same.”

At Seneca Polytechnic, some students are taking extra steps to stay safe.

“I’m cleaning my room more often and wiping down my desk and door handles,” said Josh Patel, a first-year student. “It’s scary to think how quickly something like this can spread in residence.”

Some students expressed concern over their campuses’ preparedness.

“I don’t think people are really aware of how easily something like norovirus can spread,” said Liam Edwards, a York student living in residence. “If someone gets sick here, it could get bad really fast.”

A Broader Context

According to Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health, norovirus cases across Canada and the U.S. are trending higher than recent years, though experts caution against alarm. The pandemic years disrupted typical patterns of interaction, which may explain why cases now seem higher than usual, said Goodridge.

“Compared to pre-pandemic averages, what we’re seeing isn’t entirely outside the norm,” he said.

Still, the outbreak underscores the importance of simple measures like handwashing and cleaning high-touch surfaces—advice echoed by public health officials.

For now, Guelph students are encouraged to prioritize hygiene and monitor symptoms closely. As nearby campuses take steps to prevent their own outbreaks, the situation serves as a reminder of how quickly an illness like norovirus can upend daily life.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*