Norovirus Information
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus causing vomiting and diarrhea, often called the "stomach flu" or "stomach bug." It is different from the flu, which is caused by the influenza virus.
Common symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Fever
- Body aches
Transmission:
- Direct Contact: Caring for or sharing food with an infected person.
- Contaminated Food/Water: Eating or drinking contaminated items.
- Contaminated Surfaces: Touching surfaces with the virus and then touching your mouth.
- Contagious Period: Most contagious when symptomatic, especially during vomiting. Contagious for a few days after recovery.
For more information, visit CDC's Norovirus page.
Campus Update:
As of March 27, 2024, fewer than 10 confirmed cases have been reported in Watauga County, with some possibly involving AppState students. AppHealthCare has recommended enhanced cleaning procedures, which have led to a decrease in reports. There is a regional uptick in Norovirus cases, common during colder months and post-travel periods.
Food Safety on Campus: App State ensures high standards for campus dining facilities. Any food safety concerns are investigated by AppHealthCare, which coordinates with App State as needed. Campus dining facilities remain open and operational.
Preventing Norovirus:
- Hand Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or preparing food, and after using the restroom.
- Laundry: Wash clothes in hot water.
- Surface Cleaning: Use bleach solutions (5 to 25 tablespoons per gallon of water) for cleaning surfaces. Hand sanitizers are ineffective against Norovirus.
If You’re Sick:
- Stay Home: Remain at home until 48 hours after symptoms resolve. Continue precautions for up to two weeks after feeling better.
- Student Health Service: Call 828-262-6577 for appointments in Boone and Hickory. Visit healthservices.appstate.edu for more details.
- Community Members: Contact your primary care provider or AppHealthCare at 828-795-1970 or visit apphealthcare.com.
- After-Hours: Students can reach the after-hours nurse at 828-262-3100 and press “1”.
- Emergency: Call 911 if you or someone else is experiencing a health emergency.
Social Media Rumors: Campus dining facilities have not been closed due to Norovirus. They remain open and operating as scheduled. Check dining hours at dining.appstate.edu.
