NVD Outbreak*

It has become necessary to provide the following information about the outbreak that is characterized by nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea symptoms during the spring season. 

Adenovirus outbreaks, which can occur in the spring and winter seasons and are transmitted through contact, typically present with nausea and vomiting, and may also be accompanied by diarrhea. This condition is different from what is commonly known as food poisoning. It usually resolves on its own within 24 to 48 hours with supportive treatment

Symptoms

Adenovirus symptoms do not appear immediately when a person is infected with the virus. The effects of the virus start after 12-48 hours and the onset can also be sudden.

Symptoms include nausea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, watery and non-bloody diarrhea, stomach pain and contractions, fever, muscle pain, headache, tremors.

Symptoms may appear suddenly or gradually and usually last for 1 to 3 days.

If diarrhea persists for more than 3 days, if there is blood in the stool, or if vomiting is severe, it is recommended to seek medical attention without delay.

Even after recovering from adenovirus, you may remain contagious for several weeks. Therefore, it is important to take precautions to avoid spreading the virus to others during this time.

Some individuals infected with adenovirus may not show any signs or symptoms, but they can still spread the virus to others.

Contagiousness

Adenoviruses can be transmitted in various ways, which is one of the main reasons they can cause outbreaks. They are commonly seen across the country, especially during the winter and spring months.

Transmission from person to person through close contact is very common. The virus becomes even more effective in crowded and enclosed spaces. For this reason, places such as hospitals, cinemas, theaters, schools, and public transportation vehicles are considered high-risk areas.

Infection can also occur through contact with contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

A person infected with the virus can spread the disease by releasing large amounts of adenovirus particles into their surroundings. Remember that adenovirus can survive on surfaces for several days.

Therefore:

1. Avoid close contact with others to prevent transmission,
2. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water,
3. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, and inform others not to use items you have touched,
4. Do not share food, beverages, or utensils with others,
5. Be careful not to splash water when washing dishes,
6. Clean thoroughly after using the toilet, as feces and urine are major sources of contamination,
7. Most importantly, continue to take precautions even after you recover, as you may still spread the virus for up to two weeks

Treatment

There is no cure for adenovirus, but you can manage the illness more easily with medications and precautions.

Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration caused by diarrhea and vomiting,

Follow the prescribed medications for diarrhea and nausea/vomiting as directed by your doctor,

Try to consume light, fibrous foods during the illness.

Do not ask your doctor to prescribe antibiotics, as they are used to treat bacterial infections and are not effective against viruses.

Recommendations

1. Do not stop eating due to diarrhea and vomiting.
2. If you feel nauseous, try eating small amounts at short intervals,
3. Opt for easily digestible foods such as toast, bananas, applesauce, and rice,
4. If nausea persists, refrain from eating for a while and try again later,
5. Avoid dairy products such as milk and cheese,
6. Stay away from coffee, other caffeinated beverages, alcohol, cigarettes and their derivatives, as well as spicy and fatty foods.

Measures Taken by Our University

In addition to routine cleaning of all surfaces and common areas at our university, extra cleaning is performed in high-risk areas. All food samples prepared in our cafeteria are kept for 72 hours and sent for analysis when necessary. UV filtration systems are used in drinking and utility water. There are 6 filters + UV filtration systems installed in the fountains throughout the campus. Regular control samples are taken from all fountains and analyzed at the Ministry of Health Public Health Laboratory. The results are shared on MySu.

In situations like the current outbreak, all of these analysis and control processes are supported by inspections and sample collections from the Ministries of Health and Agriculture. Additionally, extra medical and healthcare personnel support is provided to our Health Center, ensuring no disruption in the healthcare services provided to all our staff and students.

In such exceptional circumstances, please make sure to follow the announcements and recommendations from our Health Center and the Secretary General's Office, and visit our Health Center if you experience any health issues.

We wish you healthy days.

Health Center

*Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea Outbreak