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Woodland Meadows Elementary School in Saline, MI linked to Norovirus outbreak
2 years ago •source mlive.com • business
350 Woodland Drive East, Saline, 48176 Michigan, United States
Saline Area Schools (SAS); Woodland Meadows Elementary, had to shut down due to a suspected norovirus outbreak, which has caused gastroenteritis in an alarming number of students last week.The worrying increase in gastroenteritis cases at Woodland Meadows Elementary School, primarily among second-grade students, prompted officials to take measures to contain the outbreak. After a meticulous analysis of reported illness, school authorities, in collaboration with Washtenaw County Health Department, made the decision to shut the school down temporarily.
The source of the outbreak was a challenge to track since norovirus, the identified pathogen, is a common cause of gastroenteritis and spreads easily. This ubiquitous virus is typically transmitted through contaminated surfaces, direct person-to-person contact, or via food. The problem was eventually discovered following unexpected sick leaves recorded among the students, specifically second graders.
The closure is aimed at 'breaking the cycle' during the typical incubation period and to allow for extensive cleaning efforts across the school facility. Simultaneously, the officials are working on the next steps to safeguard the health of the students, staff, and the wider community.
Children and staff have been advised to stay home until 48 hours after the symptoms have subsided to prevent further transmission of the gastrointestinal illness. Norovirus symptoms typically include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramping, low-grade fever, headache, weakness, and muscle aches, lasting 1 to 2 days. The school is set to reopen once the situation is under control and health standards are met.
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