Norovirus Outbreak at Georgetown University

The latest outbreak of norovirus infections at Georgetown University in Washington, DC has made us aware of this highly contagious infection yet again. Over 170 students from October 1 to October 3, 2008 have been infected with the virus and it is yet to be determined the actual source as reported by the Washington Post. The campus dining hall was initially suspected, as norovirus transmission often begins with infected food and drink sources, however as of the writing of this article it is thought to have come from a single individual and acquired from a source other than the popular eatery on campus. Precautions, however, are being taken with total disinfection of the dining hall as well as all campus restrooms.

Norovirus, the latest term for what was once called Norwalk-like viruses are responsible for 90% of gastroenteritis around the world other than bacterial outbreak and it is usually spread in semi-closed communities such as hospitals, prisons, schools, and cruise ships according to Wikipedia. It is highly contagious and easily transmitted from person to person.

The original source of infection from norovirus is through faecally contaminated food or water. The symptoms and infection are rarely serious and most people recover spontaneously within 24-48 hours and those infected remain contagious for up to 3 days after symptoms appear. The major symptoms are those of the stomach flu such as nausea, abdominal pain, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, weight loss, general malaise, fever, and dehydration.

Generally, the norovirus is resistant to most forms of disinfectants, including regular soaps, and hot and cold temperatures, however, chlorine-based bleaches and disinfectants will eradicate the virus. Anyone in close contact to an infected person is at a high risk of infection and it travels fast from person to person through hand contact and subsequent touching of eyes, ears, nose, or mouth.

The best protections from norovirus are first of all to always practice good hygiene. Hands should be washed regularly and often. Routine disinfecting of all hard surfaces in bathrooms and kitchens along with common areas should be done with chlorine-based bleach. If possible, the bleach should be left on for 10 minutes or longer. Avoiding contact with those who may be infected is important as well.

Several recent outbreaks of norovirus have been found to have started from restaurants across the country using either infected foods or through their own unsanitary processes. These have included: the Bravo! Cucina Italiano in Lansing, Michigan in 2006 that spread across three states; Washington State Penitentiary in 2002 and 2003; Carraba's in Lansing Michigan in 2006; Las Vegas Flamingo in 2004; and most recently several outbreaks on cruise ships that have immobilized the cruise.

The latest outbreak of norovirus in Washington, DC is said to be under control although many students have left the Georgetown campus out of fear of infection. Although the symptoms are usually not deadly, it is definitely highly incapacitating and anyone near DC should take care to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of the disease.