WCSU Mystery Sickness Identified UPDATE

DANBURY, CT — The Connecticut Department of Public Health has issued a statement naming an outbreak of Norovirus as the cause of the illness that has affected approximately 100 students at Western Connecticut State University since last Tuesday and caused the shutdown of the school today.

In a release, the DPH says it has advised WCSU on proper cleaning procedures for Norovirus and will continue to investigate and coordinate with officials in Danbury and at WCSU.

Students and staff are being advised to practice frequent handwashing with soap and water to avoid becoming ill. They should also avoid preparing food for others, or working in a day care center, health care facility or food service establishment. Those experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms – vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, low grade fever – are being cautioned to seek medical attention if those symptoms become severe.

The illness was first reported at the school on Friday, April 20.

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