240 Sickened In Stomach Flu At Air Force Academy

U.S. Air Force Academy health professionals are currently caring for a number of cadets and some active duty personnel exhibiting symptoms of what?s commonly known as a ?stomach flu?, or viral gastroenteritis.

As of Tuesday, approximately 240 basic cadets are showing symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This number also includes those who have already recovered and are back to normal basic cadet training and duty activities.

?The health and safety of our cadets and all those who live and work at USAFA are our top priority,? said Lieutenant General Mike Gould, Air Force Academy superintendent.

?We understand this is a serious matter, and we are taking steps to inform Academy personnel and the community of the precautions necessary to ensure their safety. We will release updates as information becomes available,” he said.

Approximately 180 basic cadets recovering in isolation at Vandenberg Hall, one of two cadet dormitories. Active duty personnel with possible symptoms have been sent home, the academy said.

No one has been hospitalized, the academy said.

Officials said anyone who is experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms to stay hydrated and see a local health care provider if needed. The illness simply has to run its course, Academy medical officials added.

The key to prevention is thoroughly washing hands and cleaning potentially infected contact surfaces with a 10-percent bleach solution.

Stay with KRDO.com for this developing story and look for a LIVE report on KRDO NewsChannel 13 at Noon.