Babson College in Wellesley has closed for several days due to an outbreak of norovirus that sickened approximately 100 students. Norovirus causes "stomach flu" or acute gastroenteritis (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramping). It is extremely contagious and can spread quickly in dense, semi-closed communities.
People who contract norovirus often become ill suddenly and feel very sick for several days. People with norovirus can be contagious both before they feel sick and after they feel better. Frequent and consistent hand-washing is the best way to prevent the spread of this virus.
There have been no cases of norovirus illness at MIT recently, but active surveillance continues. More information on norovirus is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
March 30, 2009