Breda University students fall ill during introduction camp

Approximately 175 students and supervisors from Breda University of Applied Sciences (BUas) fell ill during an introduction camp at the Tulderheyde campsite in Poppel. The outbreak occurred during the final night of the four-day event, which hosted around 950 participants.

Initial investigations by GGD West-Brabant found traces of norovirus in the stool samples of some participants, suggesting the highly contagious virus may be the cause of the gastrointestinal symptoms. While food poisoning was initially suspected, health officials noted that the virus cannot be ruled out, and it remains unclear if the spread occurred via contaminated food, surfaces, or other means.

At least three individuals required ambulance transport due to dehydration. Breda University of Applied Sciences reported on Monday that all affected students and supervisors have since recovered or are on the mend. Educational activities have resumed according to the scheduled plan.