Recently, several students from Baoding University of Science and Technology reported online that many students had been hospitalized due to symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. The students suspect that the school’s septic tank and water pipes may have been connected incorrectly. However, the school authorities have stated that the symptoms could be caused by norovirus leading to gastroenteritis and diarrhea.
According to screenshots circulating online, there are messages claiming that “Baoding University of Science and Technology accidentally switched the septic tank pipe with the tap water pipe,” and “Many students are in the hospital.”
Many netizens also shared their experiences, with comments like “Six out of eight students in our dorm are experiencing vomiting and diarrhea,” and “My son has been vomiting for several days,” with some even mentioning that “They have been admitted to the ICU.” Others complained about the quality of the hot water at the school, describing it as salty, yellow, and bitter. Despite complaints and promises of improvement from the school, the situation worsened with the water turning even more yellow, causing skin irritation and inflammation.
One netizen claimed that the school cafeteria has already been closed. However, some parents mentioned that the issue of yellow water has been ongoing for several months, while the vomiting and diarrhea among students are recent incidents.
A self-proclaimed student of the university stated, “Our counselor reminded us to be vigilant, and the doctors mentioned that it could be the norovirus.”
On December 19th, reporters from Dingtan News contacted Baoding University of Science and Technology in Hebei about the situation. The school staff confirmed that multiple students were indeed experiencing physical discomfort, but the exact number was unknown. They denied the online claims regarding the “pipe switching.”
The staff also mentioned that recent outbreaks of the flu and norovirus could lead to gastroenteritis and diarrhea. The school authorities are currently investigating the matter and will release an official statement soon.
Public records show that Baoding University of Science and Technology, formerly known as the Great Wall College of China University of Geosciences, was established in 2005 as a full-time undergraduate independent college through a collaboration between China University of Geosciences (Beijing) and Baoding Heyang Education Investment Co., Ltd. In 2018, it was renamed Baoding University of Science and Technology.