Student Health Issue 051309

May 13, 2009 Today there was a significant increase in the number of Eagle Creek students going home ill with stomach flu symptoms. In consulting with the Snohomish County Health Department it is suspected to be an outbreak of what is know as Norovirus. The outbreak appears to be isolated to Eagle Creek Elementary. What is Norovirus? Norovirus is the name of a group of viruses that is a common cause of vomiting and diarrhea illness outbreaks. Although people who have Norovirus infection may feel very sick for several days, the illness is seldom serious. What are the Symptoms of Norovirus Symptoms often begin suddenly within 12 to 48 hours after exposure to Norovirus. Most people get better within one or two days and have no long-term health effects from the illness, though dehydration (loss of fluids) may occur and result in hospitalization. Symptoms include: • Nausea and vomiting • Watery diarrhea • Stomach cramps • Fever, chills, headache, muscle aches How is it spread? Norovirus is very contagious and usually spread by contact with the vomit or stool of a sick person, or by contaminated food. How is the spread of Norovirus Prevented? • Norovirus can spread quickly in places of close living quarters, Therefore it is imperative that sick people stay home for at least 3 days after the last symptoms of illness have occurred. • Wash your hands thoroughly for 20seconds with soap before eating, preparing food, and after the use of the restroom. • Clean and disinfect hard, non-porous surfaces that have been contaminated with vomit or stool immediately wearing disposable gloves. • Use hot water to wash all dishes and utensils, and soiled laundry. • Wash your hands after removing gloves. If you have any questions feel free to call your family doctor, the Snohomish Health District Communicable Diseases Program (425)339-5278 or Christina Bassford, RN District Nurse. Christina Bassford RN (360) 618-4000, Ext 4109 Arlington Schools District Nurse 315 N. French • Arlington, WA 98223 • 360-618-6200 • Fax: 360-618-6221 • www.asd.wednet.edu