95 cases of Norovirus confirmed at metro area elementary school

Key Points:

• Health officials confirmed a norovirus outbreak at Bentwood Elementary School in Overland Park, with 97 cases reported, including 95 among students and staff and two among family members; the virus is highly contagious, and the actual case count may be higher.
• Norovirus causes gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and spreads easily through fecal contamination; health experts emphasize thorough handwashing with soap and water, disinfecting high-touch surfaces, and keeping sick children home to prevent further transmission.
• The Olathe School District responded with deep cleanings and coordinated with the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) after absences reached a 10% threshold, leading to the official outbreak declaration; as of the latest update, only one student remains absent with symptoms.
• Norovirus outbreaks are common nationally, with about 2,500 reported annually, and Johnson County typically experiences 3-5 outbreaks per year; the Bentwood outbreak is relatively large but not unprecedented.
• Parents noted the rapid spread of the virus within the school community, with multiple families affected and activities canceled; since hand sanitizer is ineffective against norovirus, schools and families are reinforcing proper handwashing practices.