Norovirus outbreak infects 64 at University of Regina

Health officials have confirmed that 64 people have fallen ill at the University of Regina in recent days due to a norovirus outbreak.

A number of gastrointestinal illness cases were reported at the university late last week, and norovirus was suspected.

The Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region made it official on Tuesday.

Norovirus infection, which is characterized by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain, can be easily spread.

The university said thatit will continue theprecautions it's takensince the outbreak began.

That means, for example, the fitness centre in the kinesiology building will remain closed until March 4.

"Anything that we have high contact surfaces we want to try and control that the best we can so again in the fitness and lifestyle centre we would consider that an area with lots of high contact surfaces," said Darren Cherwaty, director of health, safety and wellness.

Cleaners and food services staff have been told to take extra precautions around cleaning, including measures to disinfect high contact surfaces.

In the food service areas, salad bars and self-serve buffets, won't be available for now.

The university said students shouldn't worry about academic fallout as a result of norovirus.

"If they need an academic accommodation for an exam or for a paper, we're certainly there for them in the context of dealing with their faculty members," Cherwaty said.

How it's spread

• Direct contact with another person with the virus (sharing food, caring for someone with the virus).
• Touching contaminated surfaces, objects and fabrics.
• Eating or drinking contaminated food or drink.

Norovirus prevention

There are several things people can do to prevent the illness from spreading, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada:

• Wash hands thoroughly after using washroom and before preparing food.
• Stay home if you're sick and for 48-72 hours after symptoms have cleared.
• Clean surfaces that came in contact with feces or vomit with soapy water and disinfect with bleach.
• Immediately wash clothing or linens that may be contaminated.