Stomach virus sweeps through student hostels

An outbreak of upset tummies swept through Waikato University’s Halls of Residence this morning.

Several areas of Bryant Hall and Student Village have been quarantined after the contamination spread through their close-knit communities.

“We have put things in place [to contain it],” Student Health Centre team member Michele McGinity said.

A caterer at the halls said there was  “a whole floor locked down at Student Village”.

The virus has infected an unknown number of students living at the Halls. “Maybe 20, maybe 40, I don’t know,” the caterer said.

One student had his appointment at the Student Health Centre cancelled, and was told to avoid going in to the university today. “They said they were really busy.”

The university’s public relations manager, Peta Goldsworthy, has sent an email alert to students, warning that the virus “has been doing the rounds in Hamilton City”.

The email advises caution about interpersonal contact and increased vigilance with hand-washing, and assures that the university is taking similar measures.

But there is still no excuse for taking a day off. “The university is open for business as usual,” Goldsworthy said.

Students who are feeling ill are advised to access the medical services on campus in person or by emailing medcent@waikato.ac.nz or phoning 838 4037.

“Arrangements have been made for students who are unwell to be cared for in special areas of the Halls,” Goldsworthy said.