We have recently seen a substantial increase in the number of students and staff experiencing vomiting and diarrhea. We are sharing more information in the hopes of slowing and hopefully stopping the spread. Please feel free to contact our school nurse, Krystal Chesbro, with any questions.
413-662-3260
kchesbro@napsk12.org
For more detailed information, please click on the following link which will bring you to the Mass Department of Health website.
Mass Department of Health - Norovirus information
What are the symptoms of NLV infection?
The symptoms of NLV infection include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Other symptoms can include headache, fever, and chills, and muscle aches. These symptoms usually begin 1-2 days after exposure to the virus and will last about 1-2 days in most people, with no long-term effects.
What is the treatment for NLV infection?
There is no specific treatment for NLV infection. NLV cannot be treated with antibiotics and people usually get better without medical attention in 1-2 days. There is a risk for dehydration due to vomiting and diarrhea so it is important to drink plenty of fluids. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your health care provider.
What can you do to prevent NLV infection?
Follow the tips below; if you make them your habits, you can prevent infection by NLV – as well as other diseases:
Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before eating or preparing food, after using the toilet, and after changing diapers.
Make sure all food preparation areas are clean before use.
Cook your food completely. Wash all fruits and vegetables.
When traveling to an area that might have contaminated water, drink bottled, preferably carbonated, beverages and do not use ice.
After episodes of vomiting or diarrhea, clean contaminated surfaces immediately with a bleach-based household cleaner.
If you are taking care of someone who has vomited or who has diarrhea, wash your hands with plenty of soap and warm water after cleaning the bathroom, helping the person use the toilet, or changing diapers, soiled clothes or soiled sheets.
If you or your child has persistent diarrhea (with or without a fever), or the diarrhea is very bad, call your health care provider for advice.