AI Image
Nearly 100 cases of norovirus reported at Kansas elementary school, officials say
ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos • • health
Key Points:
- Nearly 100 people, including 95 students and staff and two family members, were affected by a norovirus outbreak at Bentwood Elementary School in Olathe, Kansas, starting in early October.
- Symptoms reported included vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain, with no hospitalizations and no new cases since October 13.
- The Johnson County Department of Health and Environment and Olathe Public Schools worked closely to monitor the outbreak and provide guidance to prevent further spread, which is now considered over.
- Norovirus is highly contagious and the leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., with about 21 million cases annually and symptoms typically lasting 1 to 3 days.
- The CDC emphasizes hand washing with soap and water as the best prevention method, noting that hand sanitizer is ineffective against norovirus.
