The local resident believed that the outbreak was caused by food poisoning because many people were sick at the same time and those who did not eat the food did not become ill.

The University of Canterbury is in the middle of end-of-year exam season and some students have requested special assessment. However, they claim that they were told they had to take today’s exams even though they felt sick.

“We were told we had to attend exams, even though many students couldn’t stay away from the toilet for more than a few minutes,” said one student. reporter.

The student, who wanted to remain anonymous, said that he had difficulty taking the Information Systems exam.

“It was so hard to focus, all I could think about was making sure nothing showed up,” she said.

“We had a friend who had to leave after half an hour because she threw up.”

He said it wasn’t the first time students had problems with food in the hall.

“We have come to University Hall with many issues and complaints about food quality throughout the year and were constantly told the quality would improve, but this was the last straw for us.

“They need to be held responsible for this.”

Paul O’Flaherty, the university’s chief executive of people, culture and campus life, said: reporter Both University Hall and Ilam Student Accommodation were affected.

“This is of course a concern to us and we are working closely with the National Public Health Service to investigate the cause of the disease, including a visit by Public Health staff to University Hall to test a small sample of students,” he said. .

“While affected students appear to be recovering well today, we have advised them to keep their fluids up, continue to practice careful hand washing and check the Health New Zealand website for information and advice.”

O’Flaherty said students are referred to UniLodge for any support they may need, including free electrolyte mix for dehydration, bottled water and packaged meals.

“Students who cannot take the exams due to illness can apply. special attention and make-up exams may be offered for which they need to be given time in the next few weeks.”

Katie Oliver is a multimedia journalist and breaking news reporter based in Christchurch.