Written by
The Associated Press
GAYLORD, Minn. - Officials from the Minnesota Department of Health believe the outbreak of illnesses at schools in Gaylord were caused by a norovirus. Test results should be known in about two weeks.
This past week, the Minnesota Department of Health was called to the Sibley East schools in Gaylord after hundreds of students and staff called in sick with a stomach illness, characterized by vomiting and diarrhea.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, noroviruses spread from person to person, through contaminated food or water, and by touching contaminated surfaces. Norovirus is recognized as the leading cause of foodborne-disease outbreaks in the United States.
Officials say hand-washing is vital to stopping the spread of the illness. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, and last about 24 hours.
School staff thoroughly cleaned surfaces Wednesday, and the self-service food line was shut down. Students also were asked not to share or pass food in the classrooms.
Officials say it is unknown where in the school the outbreak began.
(Copyright 2012 by KARE 11 & The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)