Recently there have been reports in the news regarding outbreaks of Norovirus in Utah schools. Norovirus is a highly contagious infection that causes gastroenteritis, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
Granite School District is taking steps to prevent the spread of illness at schools by spraying disinfectant in every classroom and in every school bus on at least a weekly basis. Custodians are also ensuring hand sanitizer and soap stations remain filled.
While these efforts will help curb the spread of illness, the most effective preventative measures are simple, personal habits of hygiene. These habits should be applied at all times to prevent the spread of any contagious illness:
WASH HANDS often, especially after using the restroom and before eating meals. Wash with soap for at least 20 seconds, and avoid touching your mouth and eyes.
STAY HOME IF YOU’RE SICK. Students should remain home from school for the following reasons:
- The child has a temperature higher than 100 degrees. Children should be fever free and should only return to school if they have gone 24 hours without taking fever reducing medications.
- Students experiencing vomiting and/or diarrhea must remain home until 24 hours after symptoms have subsided without medication.
- Symptoms such as a heavy coughing, chest congestion, discolored nasal drainage, or a rash of unknown origin should be evaluated and cleared by a physician prior to returning to school.
- As a general rule, students should remain home until they have been symptom free for 24 hours.
CLEAN SURFACES using an effective cleaner to disinfect surfaces and objects that are frequently touched.
RINSE FRUITS & VEGETABLES AND COOK SHELLFISH THOROUGHLY.
AVOID PREPARING FOOD FOR OTHERS IF YOU’RE SICK. Use gloves when touching or caring for patients to reduce exposure. Wash soiled laundry thoroughly.
To learn more about Norovirus and how to prevent and treat it, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website: https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus