Camden County school hit by outbreak of gastrointestinal illness

A school in Camden County experienced a sharp increase this week in the number of students sickened by gastrointestinal illness, health officials said.

The school, which was not named, notified the Camden County Department of Health after multiple students reported they were sickened on Wednesday.

A further rise in symptomatic students was reported at the school on Thursday, the health department said.

Officials did not say how many students have been afflicted, but NBC10 reported at least 100 students have fallen ill.

“Gastrointestinal illnesses can be highly contagious, so it is essential that families are aware of the signs and symptoms,” said Camden County Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Department of Health and Human Services.

The symptoms, which often appear suddenly and may range from mild to severe, include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, fever and fatigue.

Most cases resolve within a few days, but those sickened can become severely dehydrated if they are not replacing fluids lost through vomiting and diarrhea.

Young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are at risk for complications.

Anyone with symptoms should stay home for at least 48 hours to prevent spreading the illness, Betteridge said.

The county health department said the school has increased disinfecting of high-touch surfaces and other areas in line with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards.

“Symptomatic students have been excluded from attendance, and proper hand hygiene practices are being reinforced among staff and students,” the health department said.

Gastrointestinal illness can be caused by a range of viruses, bacteria, or parasites and is commonly spread through contaminated food or water.

Transmission can also occur through contact with contaminated surfaces or direct contact with an infected person.

Schools, day-care centers and other group settings are especially susceptible to rapid spread.

Health officials say frequent handwashing with soap and water and disinfecting high-touch surfaces can significantly reduce the risk of infection.