A sudden surge of gastrointestinal illness has sickened more than 100 students at an undisclosed school in Camden County, New Jersey, according to county officials.
Timeline of the Outbreak
On Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, county officials reported that the school had noticed an unusual increase in students experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms. The next day, Dec. 11, they confirmed that the number of symptomatic students had risen again.
School’s Response
The school has intensified its cleaning protocols and reinforced proper hand hygiene practices among staff and students. Symptomatic students have been excluded from attendance to prevent further spread.
County Health Department Involvement
The Camden County Department of Health has maintained constant communication with the affected school. Officials say the department is monitoring the situation closely and advising parents on precautionary measures.
Commissioner Virginia Betteridge’s Advisory
Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Department of Health and Human Services, warned, “Gastrointestinal illnesses can be highly contagious, so it is essential that families are aware of the signs and symptoms.”
Betteridge’s Guidance for Parents
She added, “If your child begins to show symptoms, please keep them home until at least 48 hours after symptoms resolve to prevent further spreading the illness.”
Director Caryelle Vilaubi’s Statement
Caryelle Vilaubi, Director of the Camden County Department of Health, stated that only one school has been affected as of Friday. “This is the time of year that we see GI infections spread throughout our community. Right now we’re seeing it in one school, but in the community, it may show up in others,” she said.
Symptoms of the Illness
The illness manifests with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and fatigue. Symptoms often appear suddenly and can range from mild to severe.
Typical Course of the Illness
Most cases resolve within a few days. However, officials emphasize the importance of early detection and isolation to curb potential transmission.
Preventive Measures
The best way to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal illness is to frequently wash hands with soap and water and to disinfect high‑touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and keyboards.
Vilaubi’s Emphasis on Hygiene
“It’s very tempting to try to push through so we can celebrate the season, but it’s really important that if you’re not feeling well, you stay home, wash your hands, and sanitize the high‑touch areas,” Vilaubi added.
Community Impact
While the outbreak is confined to a single school, officials warn that similar infections could appear in other schools throughout the county.
Public Health Recommendations
Health officials recommend that parents observe their children for symptoms and keep them at home for at least 48 hours after recovery.
School Attendance Policy
Students showing symptoms are excluded from attendance until they meet the 48‑hour recovery period. This policy aims to protect other students and staff.
Cleaning Protocols
The school’s increased cleaning protocols include regular disinfection of classrooms, cafeterias, and common areas to minimize surface transmission.
Hand Hygiene Reinforcement
Both staff and students are receiving additional training on proper hand‑washing techniques to ensure compliance with health guidelines.
Monitoring and Reporting
County officials will continue to monitor the situation and will report any new developments to the public promptly.
Key Takeaways
- Over 100 students in one Camden County school have fallen ill with gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Health officials recommend a 48‑hour home isolation period after symptom resolution.
- Enhanced cleaning and hand‑washing protocols have been implemented at the school.
The outbreak underscores the importance of vigilance and hygiene practices in schools during the peak season for gastrointestinal infections.
