Norovirus Confirmed In Mount Pleasant Illnesses
MOUNT PLEASANT (WWJ/AP) - Authorities say a strain of norovirus was responsible for sickening more than 200 students in the Mount Pleasant School District earlier this month.
The Morning Sun reports that health officials confirmed that one of the most common strains of norovirus was found. The district cancelled classes Jan. 12 and 13 because of illnesses.
Norovirus is part of a family of highly contagious viruses that are spread person-to-person and cause flu-like symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Some people also experience headache, low-grade fever, and body aches. Symptoms usually last for 24 to 48 hours.
Such illnesses can spread easily in places such as schools. Norovirus also was suspected in recent illnesses in Kent County.
To prevent the spread of norovirus:
- Wash your hands frequently
- Stay home if you are ill
- Disinfect with a bleach-based cleaning solution
- Do not prepare food for others if you are ill
You can check to see which schools are closed anytime on our school closings page.
TM and © Copyright 2011 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
