Connecticut State Department of Public Health

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Press Releases

04/23/2018

Statement from DPH on Norovirus Outbreak at Western CT State University

The following is a statement from the State Department of Public Health (DPH) on the recent outbreak of gastrointestinal illness at Western Connecticut State University (WCSU):

“DPH’s Epidemiology and Food Protection Programs, along with the State Laboratory, are coordinating with officials at WCSU, the Danbury Health Department and Danbury Hospital to investigate an outbreak of gastrointestinal illness at WCSU that has now been confirmed through laboratory tests to be Norovirus.  The illnesses were first reported on Friday afternoon, but some of the ill patients became sick as early as Tuesday, April 17th.  We have advised WCSU on proper cleaning procedures for Norovirus and will continue to investigate and coordinate with officials in Danbury and at WCSU.  In order to avoid becoming ill with Norovirus or spreading the virus, students and staff should practice frequent handwashing with soap and water.  They should also avoid preparing food for others, working in a day care center, health care facility or food service establishment if having gastrointestinal symptoms – vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, low grade fever – and seek medical attention if those symptoms become severe.”