A gastrointestinal illness has sickened an undisclosed number of students and staff members at a school in Ancaster, Ont., public health officials say. Hamilton Public Health Services (HPHS) says it was notified on Monday of several individuals at Immaculate Conception Catholic Elementary School, at 470 Kitty Murray Lane, who developed symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting between Oct. 31 and Nov. 3. “Based on the information available, the illnesses are most consistent with viral gastroenteritis, commonly known as ‘stomach flu’,” Jordan Walker, HPHS’s director of communicable disease control, said in a written statement provided to CP24. “This type of illness spreads easily from person-to-person, typically through contact with vomit or feces, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then eating or touching your mouth before washing your hands.” He said at this time they cannot confirm the exact number of cases, “as the number of affected individuals can fluctuate as reports come in from the school.” “Most cases appear to be mild and consistent with viral gastroenteritis, which typically resolves within a few days without medical treatment,” Walker said. “(We) will continue to monitor the situation and provide support as needed to reduce the risk of further spread.” He went on to say that HPHS has been in contact with the school and is working closely with staff to “support enhanced infection prevention and control measures.” These include increased cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces, reinforcing hand hygiene practices, and providing guidance on exclusion recommendations for students and staff who are ill, he said. In an email to CTV News Toronto, a spokesperson for Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board said they’re “aware of an increase in student absences due to illness at Immaculate Conception Catholic Elementary School.” “The school is working with Hamilton Public Health, who will provide any further updates or direction. We will continue to follow their guidance to support the health and safety of our students and staff,” Debbie McGreal-Dinning wrote. The board is deferring further comment to HPHS.
