Ursinus College says 200 students ill, health report released

COLLEGEVILLE, Pa. (WPVI) -- Officials say around 200 students at Ursinus College have now reported symptoms of a stomach illness, but the source of the ailment remains a mystery.

A Montgomery County Health Department report published online reveals health inspectors found numerous violations at the school's dining hall including open pesticides near food, dead bugs and improper hand washing.

In a second follow-up report from Thursday, however, the health department says they didn't uncover any lingering violations.

Ursinus College said Sunday that classes will resume on a regular schedule Monday after being canceled Thursday and Friday. Events during the weekend also were canceled.

Officials said most reported that symptoms abated within 12 to 24 hours. Twenty-two students were treated at hospitals last week, but none was admitted.

The school's dining hall was closed after students began complaining of vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain Tuesday night, but it reopened after an inspection.

Montgomery County health investigators are trying to determine whether the ailment is foodborne or transmitted from person to person.

"This has been a difficult time for students and their families, and the college is committed to making students aware of all the medical care resources available to them. To that end, Jefferson University Hospital is offering Ursinus students free video visits with Jefferson doctors through Feb. 29. This offering, called JeffConnect On-Demand Virtual Care, allows students to have an urgent care video visit with a Jefferson emergency physician anytime, 24/7, using a mobile device or a computer with a webcam. The JeffConnect app is available at no cost to Ursinus students. In addition to this new offering, the college continues to make its Wellness Center available to students," Ursinus said in a statement.

Full reports:

http://webapp.montcopa.org/health/Inspections/DateInspectionReport.asp?Inspection=66921

http://webapp.montcopa.org/health/Inspections/DateInspectionReport.asp?Inspection=66965

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.