Central Connecticut State University Dining Hall linked to food Poisoning Outbreak

1615 Stanley Street, New Britain, 06050 Connecticut, United States

Update October 07, 2023

City and state health officials have confirmed norovirus as the cause of gastrointestinal symptoms among a small group of Central Connecticut State University students on September 27. The outbreak affected fewer than 10 individuals.

Following lab tests, the New Britain City Health Department, Connecticut Department of Public Health, and the State Laboratory determined that norovirus, not a specific food source, led to the illness. Symptoms were first reported on the afternoon of September 27.

No new cases have been reported since September 29, and affected students have recovered without hospitalization. Hilltop Café, a satellite dining hall, was temporarily closed as a precaution and reopened on September 29. Buffets were removed from the menu, and safety measures were put in place.

The New Britain Health Department has advised Central's food service provider on norovirus cleaning procedures and will cooperate with ongoing investigations. The collaborative efforts of various agencies were crucial in containing the virus.

Norovirus is very contagious and is easily transmitted from person to person most through the oral/fecal route. Considering that hand sanitizer does NOT work against this virus, it is important to wash your hands with soap frequently. Use bleach to clean and disinfect surfaces.

In case you experience Norovirus symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea, report it now. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.

Source: www.ccsu.edu/article/student-illness-linked-stomach-bug

September 28, 2023

Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) is investigating a suspected food poisoning incident involving Hilltop Café, its on-campus dining facility. Critical cases of food poisoning have surfaced from CCSU's Hilltop Café, prompting authorities to temporarily shut it down. The university's Environmental Health and Safety Department is actively cooperating with the City of New Britain Department of Public Health, alongside food service provider, Sodexo, to discern the source of the outbreak. Currently, the number of affected individuals and the particular pathogen causing the sickness are both unknown.

In the meantime, CCSU advises students suffering from these symptoms to seek free consultation services from the university health service professionals. Memorial Hall, another on-campus dining facility at CCSU, remains open and fully functional. Inspections are currently ongoing.

In case you experience vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea, report it now. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.

Source: www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/ccsu-investigates-possible-food-poisoning-at-on-campus-dining-hall/3112955/