University of Rochester is currently under attack by the Norovirus and students are suffering. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s happening.
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a common viral gastroenteritis in humans. It’s commonly referred to as the winter vomiting bug in the UK and can affect people of all ages, especially those living within close proximity of one another. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you can get it from contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces. It’s highly contagious and tends to last from 24-48 hours.
What’s Happening at the University of Rochester?
The upstate New York college is currently infected by the virus, with 95 students falling ill so far. According to an email from the university, the outbreak remains largely confined to the River Campus, with a few cases also reported at Eastman School of Music. Considering how contagious the virus is, changes to the university’s Dandelion Day celebration — which is scheduled to go on today — have been made:
- All of the amusement rides will receive disinfecting wash-downs of the ride bars and seats at 15 minute intervals. Organizers are being extra vigilant about all of the Dandelion Day activity areas being cleaned frequently.
- Outdoor handwashing stations have been added and will be located near the rides and food areas.
- Most of the foods and beverages available outside will be prepackaged. The visiting food trucks will follow their normal food handling protocol that includes wearing gloves and preparing the food for the customer.