M.S. Shook Student Health Service
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Norovirus Information

AppHealthCare, our community’s local public health authority, has confirmed cases of Norovirus in the High Country. AppHeathCare, our local health department, advises vigilance, especially after periods of travel. Please see additional information below.

Last updated April 2, 2024

What is Norovirus?

  • CDC defines Norovirus as a very contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea, and it’s sometimes called the “stomach flu” or a “stomach bug.”
    • Norovirus illness is not related to the flu, which is caused by the influenza virus.
  • According to the CDC, common Norovirus symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, fever and head or body aches.
    • You can get Norovirus by:
      • Direct contact with someone with norovirus, and this includes caring for that person, or sharing food or eating utensils with them
      • Eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with Norovirus
      • Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with Norovirus and then putting your unwashed fingers in your mouth
    • You are most contagious:
      • When you have symptoms of Norovirus illness, especially vomiting
      • During the first few days after you feel better
  • Please visit cdc.gov/norovirus for more information about Norovirus.

Has anyone on campus tested positive for Norovirus?

  • As of March 27, 2024, AppHealthCare, our local public health authority, reported an increase in individuals reporting to them within the past week with symptoms consistent with norovirus. There have been fewer than 10 confirmed norovirus cases for Watauga County, but it is not confirmed whether those individuals are AppState students.
    • The way a person gets norovirus can be difficult to determine since there are several modes of transmission. Since venues like the university’s dining facilities are utilized by more than 7,000 people each day, AppHealthCare has made recommendations to limit potential exposures, including recommending enhanced cleaning procedures. AppHealthCare has seen a decrease in reports since these enhanced cleaning procedures have been implemented.
    • The Centers for Disease Control has confirmed an increase in Norovirus cases in several states in the Southeast, including North Carolina.
    • AppHealthCare recently advised there is a national and regional uptick in Norovirus cases. This illness is more common during cold and flu season, which is generally acknowledged to begin in October and last until May.
    • It remains possible to get sick, regardless of the precautions taken to prevent the spread of Norovirus – especially after periods of travel, like spring break or holidays.

Should I be concerned about campus food safety?

  • No. App State and AppHealthCare work together to make sure that our campus dining and other facilities meet the highest standards for public health.
    • When a concern about food safety or possible illnesses on campus is reported to AppHealthCare, their team will investigate and communicate directly with App State.
    • If the concern is related to food safety, AppHealthCare will conduct an on-site visit and coordinate with App State.
    • App State follows any updated guidance that results from these on-site health inspections, including updates to cleaning and disinfection practices.

What precautions can I take to prevent the spread of Norovirus?

  • According to CDC, one of the most important things you can do to prevent Norovirus is to wash your hands frequently, using proper handwashing techniques.
    • Wash your hands well with soap and water before eating or preparing food, and each time you visit the restroom
    • Wash laundry in hot water
    • Hand sanitizers will not kill Norovirus.
  • CDC recommends surface cleaning practices for Norovirus to include chlorine bleach solutions with a ratio of about 5 to 25 tablespoons of bleach per gallon of water. See https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/about/prevention.html for more information.
    • App State is using bleach solutions for cleaning surfaces in campus dining and other communal facilities such as restrooms and shared bathrooms.

I think I’m sick with Norovirus, what do I do?

  • Stay home if you are sick. If sick with confirmed or suspected Norovirus, CDC recommends that you should stay home until 48 hours after your symptoms have resolved. Exercise caution for two weeks after infection, as you could still be contagious after you feel better.
    • Students can schedule an appointment with Student Health Service by calling 828-262-6577. Appointments are available in Boone and Hickory. Visit healthservices.appstate.edu for more information on hours and locations.
    • Community members are advised to contact their primary care provider for an appointment. To establish care with AppHealthCare, call 828-795-1970 for an appointment or visit apphealthcare.com.
  • According to CDC, there is no specific medication for Norovirus treatment, but drinking plenty of fluids will help to prevent dehydration. Contact your healthcare provider if you are concerned about your symptoms.
    • Students can contact Student Health Service after regular business hours at 828-262-3100 and press “1” to connect with the after-hours nurse.
    • In any event that you are concerned you or your student may be experiencing any kind of health or medical emergency, call 911.

I’ve seen rumors on social media that dining facilities on campus were closed due to Norovirus. Is this true?