Connecticut university closes campus over norovirus outbreak

Danbury-based Western Connecticut State University shut down its campus April 23 after 100 students were sickened with norovirus, according to the NewsTimes.

Advertisement

Dozens of students suddenly fell ill April 20, complaining of symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea. Fourteen students were admitted to Danbury Hospital and five tested positive for norovirus, which is a highly contagious illness that can lead to severe dehydration.

University officials canceled classes and closed the campus April 23 as a precaution while state and county health departments found the source of the outbreak.

Since norovirus is not spread through the air, the university reopened April 24 because officials said they could safety hold classes if students wash their hands and sick students stay home for 72 hours after their symptoms have subsided.

WCSU staff spent the weekend cleaning in the cafeteria and common areas to help stop the spread of the illness.

More articles on healthcare quality: 
36% of hospital readmissions likely do not reflect poor surgical quality
Full-time Banner Health nurse takes second in Boston Marathon: 6 things to know 
Texas hospital staff find fetus in dirty linen cart

Advertisement

Next Up in Clinical Leadership & Infection Control

Advertisement

Comments are closed.