Duke Taking Steps to Guard Against Norovirus

The N.C. Division of Public Health recently issued an advisory regarding an increase in norovirus infections throughout the state, and in the last week, sporadic cases of gastrointestinal illness have
prompted Infection Prevention and Biopreparedness at Duke University to take
precautionary measures against norovirus.

Noroviruses are highly contagious and are characterized by acute vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and some stomach cramping for a period of one to three days. Some people may also have a low fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and a general sense of tiredness. Dehydration is the most common complication and may require intravenous replacement fluids in at-risk persons.

Noroviruses are found in the stool and vomit of infected people and can be spread from person to person, through contaminated food or water, and by touching contaminated surfaces.

"All students, faculty and staff are advised to practice effective hand hygiene to limit the spread of the virus," said Dr. George Jackson, co-director of Employee Occupational Health and Wellness. "The best way to prevent infection is by washing hands with soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers may not be effective against noroviruses."

If experiencing an illness consistent with norovirus infection, employees should stay out of work until 24 hours after all symptoms have resolved. This is especially true for healthcare workers and dining services staff who could potentially transmit infection to a large number of people. Students with norovirus symptoms should remain in their rooms and minimize contact with others to limit the spread of the virus. 

Other precautions include immediately cleaning and disinfecting any surfaces suspected of contamination by using a bleach-based household cleaner and machine washing and drying any clothes that may have been contaminated.

Any suspected cases of a norovirus infection should be reported to either Student Health (919-681-9355) or the Employee Occupational Health and Wellness (EOHW) hotline (919-684-8115) for monitoring of a potential outbreak on campus. All healthcare workers and dining employees with symptoms of a norovirus infection must contact the EOHW hotline to be clear to return to work. Any students who become dehydrated as a result of a norovirus infection should visit the Student Health Center and employees experiencing dehydration should visit their primary care physician or an urgent care facility.

For more information about noroviruses, visit the Center for Disease Control's Norovirus website.