Norovirus sickens dozens of Seattle elementary school kids
Feb 13, 2015, 4:20 PM | Updated: 5:11 pm
Norovirus can be contracted by coming in contact with an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces. (AP File Photo)
(AP File Photo)
An outbreak of the highly-contagious norovirus has sickened dozens of kids at Southern Heights Elementary school in south Seattle.
About 69 students were absent from the school Friday, said Highline School District spokesperson Catherine Carbone Rogers. On a normal day, 15-20 students would be out, she said.
The district estimates at least 50 students contracted the flu-like virus, which can cause stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
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School officials took extra precautions Friday in the school cafeteria and prohibited kids from exchanging Valentine’s Day cards and treats, Rogers said.
The school district has informed parents and brought in outside cleaners to disinfect the school.
Parents are being told to keep kids at home for at least 48 hours after their symptoms subside to keep the virus from spreading. School is closed Monday and Tuesday for the President’s Day holiday and mid-winter break.
