“Yale Health Experts Warn Students: Take Action to Stop Norovirus Spread”

Yale Health officials and experts are urging students to continue taking preventative measures to curb the spread of norovirus, a highly contagious gastrointestinal viral infection that has been causing symptoms such as stomach aches, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever among Yale students.

The surge in norovirus cases in Connecticut since early December has led to an increase in hospital visits, with the Yale community being particularly affected. While current cases are low, health officials warn that it is uncertain when they may peak this year, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures.

Madeline Wilson, the chief campus health officer, noted that there was a limited outbreak among undergraduates in December, with isolated cases at Yale Health since students returned to campus after winter break. However, many cases may go unreported as not all individuals seek care for norovirus symptoms.

Albert Ko, a professor of epidemiology at the School of Public Health, explained that norovirus is transmitted through contaminated food or water, touching contaminated surfaces, and close contact with infected individuals. The virus infects cells in the gut, leading to inflammation and stomach irritation, which causes the characteristic symptoms of norovirus.

Although norovirus typically causes symptoms for less than 48 hours, infected individuals can continue to transmit the virus to others. While the disease rarely leads to fatalities, it can cause complications such as severe dehydration, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Craig Wilen, an associate professor in immunobiology at the School of Medicine, highlighted the lack of drugs, antivirals, or vaccines for norovirus, as well as limited funding for research on the virus. Norovirus outbreaks are common during the winter months, but this year’s surge has been exacerbated by the waning immunity resulting from COVID-19 public health measures.

Sebastian Reyes, a Yale student who contracted norovirus in December, shared his experience of the symptoms, which included a high fever, gastrointestinal discomfort, and body aches. Reyes emphasized the importance of taking precautions to prevent the spread of the virus, as there is currently no vaccine available.

Yale Health is focusing on education and preventive measures to reduce the spread of norovirus on campus. Students are advised to wash their hands with soap and water, clean high-touch surfaces with bleach-based cleaners, and stay home for 48 hours after symptoms resolve if they become sick. If symptoms worsen, students should seek treatment at Yale Health.

With approximately 1 in 15 people in the U.S. contracting norovirus annually, it is crucial for the Yale community to remain vigilant and follow recommended guidelines to prevent the further spread of the virus. By taking proactive measures, students can help protect themselves and others from the effects of norovirus.