At least four people have been stricken with E. coli at the University of Guelph – two food handlers, one university faculty, and one conference attendee.

So says the health unit, in a local newspaper report. The university didn’t actually say anything, other than to issue a Kremlinesque request to talk to people who’ve been barfing.

“In the interests of the health of our community, the University is posting this bulletin. Representatives of Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health are investigating a possible E. coli outbreak.

“Symptoms of E. coli include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea and/or vomiting. If you or a family member recently had, or currently has any of those symptoms, please call Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health at 1-877-844-8653. For more information about E. coli go to www.wdghu.org”

A university spokesthingy did tell the paper, "We take pride in our food services and food safety."

Risk communication 101: Better to come clean up front than let the details slowly – or explosively – shit out.