Boston College taking measures to mitigate campus-wide Norovirus outbreak

BOSTON — Boston College is taking "aggressive, precautionary measures" to mitigate a Norovirus outbreak that affected dozens of students.

In an update to students and faculty, Dr. Thomas Nary, the university's Director of Health and Services said dozens of the their 14,400 students reported to Health Services last week with symptoms related to gastrointestinal illness.

Given the contagious nature of the Norovirus, BC Housekeeping and Dining Services staff have taken several measures to limit the spread of the illness on campus.

Staff have been continuously disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout campus, especially in restrooms and residence halls. Salad bars in the dining halls were closed and self-service foods were removed, measures approved by the Department of Public Health.

"The university will remain vigilant and maintain these procedures to ensure the health and wellbeing of our campus community, even as this spate of illnesses continues to subside," said Dr. Nary.

In a continued effort to help curb the spread of the illness, students are encouraged to take the following precautions:

•    Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, several times a day.
•    Frequently clean touch surfaces, including cell phones, laptops, and keyboards.
•    Avoid sharing food utensils, containers, and other personal items.
•    Buddy packs are available in dining halls for friends and roommates who may be feeling ill.

Additional information can be found on the BC Health Services website.

Cox Media Group