MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. — The North Central Health District has confirmed that norovirus is to blame for an outbreak in Milledgeville that affected more than 125 people.
On Feb. 6, they were notified of 13 reports of a gastrointestinal illness, which triggered an investigation.
As a result, Georgia College voluntarily closed all its dining facilities for one day, until it was determined the illness was NOT food related and did not start at Georgia College.
Samples from sick individuals were sent to the Georgia Public Health Lab for testing and test results came back on Tuesday that were positive for norovirus.
Now what exactly is norovirus?
- It’s a virus that causes diarrhea and vomiting. Symptoms appear 12 hours to two days after initial exposure and symptoms last between 1-3 days.
How is it spread?
- People with norovirus can spread billions of the virus via fecal matter or vomit. People can encounter the virus by eating food or liquid contaminated by the virus or touching contaminated surfaces.
How can you prevent it?
- Washing your hands and disinfecting surfaces at risk for contamination.