Norovirus Downs About 100 Students At The University Of Michigan

Around 100 students at the University of Michigan were said to have contracted the "winter vomiting bug" or the norovirus at school this week. The affected individuals manifested the usual symptoms of diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea.

An Associated Press report published by Fox News said the gastrointestinal problem prompted school officials to clean up the entire learning institution even its swimming pool. Next week, the university will be the host of the Big Ten women's diving and swimming finals competition.

There is still nothing definite as to the cause of the outbreak on campus but chief health officer Dr. Robert Winfield strongly believes it is norovirus. WebMD describes norovirus as a cause of diarrhea and vomiting since it targets the stomach and the linings of the large intestine.

Meanwhile, Detroit News noted that medical tests conducted on the students will yield results later this week or next week. For now, students have been given treated for the symptoms they manifested.

"We're asking those students to isolate themselves, stay in their rooms and don't go to class," said University of Michigan spokesperson Rick Fitzgerald. He claimed that officials of the university are already conducting a thorough investigation of the incident.

The school has also advised students to properly wash their hands to avoid spreading the suspected virus. "Good hand hygiene is particularly critical to breaking the chain of transmission," mentioned Winfield.

He added in a Click on Detroit report that students suffering from the symptoms of the virus need to isolate themselves for about two days to avoid spreading it to other people. Winfield claimed that individuals will be virus-free after 48 hours but the discomfort could last for as long as 72 hours.

Aside from thorough handwashing, affected students are also advised to hydrate themselves and seek medical help if possible. They are also told to avoid going to crowded places where they can spread the disease.