Stamps Health Services, with the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness (FCDH) and the Georgia Department of Health, continues to investigate the unknown gastrointestinal illness (infection affecting the stomach and/or intestines) that has been spreading on campus.

Test results from samples sent to FCDH were negative for bacteria, which means that antibiotics are not effective against the illness spreading on campus. Additional tests to see if the illness is caused by a virus are still underway.

As of October 20th, Stamps Health Services has seen 121 students with symptoms of the illness. Additionally, 194 of 226 people who participated in the FCDH’s survey reported having symptoms of the illness. Investigations are still underway to determine where the illness started and how it is spreading. 

FCHD inspected the North Avenue dining hall last week to ensure cleanliness and it received an A rating. Brittain dining hall will be inspected next week.

Preventing the spread of the germ causing this illness is everyone’s responsibility. We ask all Georgia Tech community members to follow these simple steps to help prevent spread of this illness and other easily-spread infections:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water especially after going to the bathroom, changing diapers, and ALWAYS before eating or preparing food. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Do not share food, drinks, eating utensils, or drink containers.
• Wash dirty laundry on longest wash cycle and machine dry.
• Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces using a bleach-based household cleaner as directed by the product label.
• If you have symptoms, stay home until you are symptom-free for at least 24 hours. Symptoms typically last 12 to 36 hours. Seek care at Stamps Health Services or a nearby health care facility for persistent symptoms or dehydration.

If you are currently experiencing symptoms, contact Stamps Health Services for an appointment (404-894-1420).

Follow Stamps Health Services on Facebook or go to health.gatech.edu/health-advisory for the latest information.