The D.C. Department of Health is investigating a possible outbreak of Norovirus at Howard University.
Officials from the school say they reported "a number of cases of gastrointestinal illnesses among our students" to the health department. "Additionally, we have notified our students, faculty and staff to take precautions to prevent contracting this illness."
Noroviruses are a group of related viruses that cause acute gastroenteritis in humans, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. The illness is spread from person to person, through contaminated food or water, and by touching contaminated surfaces.
About 85 similar cases were reported by students at The George Washington University between Feb. 13 and 16.
Additionally, Henderson Elementary School in Montclair, Va. (Prince William County) had at least one confirmed case.
To reduce your chances of contracting norovirus, the CDC says:
- Wash your hands carefully with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and changing diapers and always before eating or preparing food. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Carefully wash fruits and vegetables, and cook oysters and other shellfish thoroughly before eating them.
- Do not prepare food while infected.
- People with norovirus illness should not prepare food for others while they have symptoms and for three days after they recover from their illness.
- Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces.
- Wash laundry thoroughly.