The contagious gastrointestinal virus outbreak at the University of Southern California (USC) has risen to about 275, days after 200-Georgetown University students were infected with a similar virus.  However, the outbreak may have peaked, as there has been a decline in the number of students looking for medical help since Sunday.

The infection hospitalized ten students were experiencing vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps, while intravenous fluids had to be given to those suffering from serious dehydration.

School officials have taken adequate measures to contain and prevent further infection, recommending thorough washing of hands and distributing sanitizing wipes to students attending classes.  Infected students have been advised to stay at home and drink plenty of fluids.

The cause of the outbreak remains unknown and may have originated in university dorms.  The campus dining facility ‘Everybody’s Kitchen’ inspected by Los Angeles County health inspectors has re-opened after no evidence of any contamination was found.