Norovirus outbreak in York Region school ‘under control’

An apparent outbreak of the norovirus at Thornhill Woods Public School is under control, according to health officials in York Region.

While 104 students called in sick on Friday, that number dropped to 54 on Wednesday.

Tests are still being done to determine if it was indeed the norovirus that swept through the school.

York Region Public Health has confirmed that two schools did test positive for norovirus – one in Markham, the other in East Gwillimbury. A handful of additional schools, daycare centres and senior homes are also reporting symptoms. But officials say these types of outbreaks shouldn’t last long.

“Outbreaks of norovirus and other enteric viruses, those which cause vomiting and diarrhea, are common at this time of year. In fact, norovirus is the most common cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks worldwide,” said Dr. Karim Kurji, York Region’s Medical Officer of Health. “The numbers we are seeing across the Region are no greater than in previous years.”

Symptoms of the norovirus include diarrhea and vomiting. It can be spread by touching an infected surface and putting your hands or fingers in your mouth, which makes schools a perfect breading ground for the virus.

Meanwhile, the Toronto District School Board sent a letter home to parents after a number of children became ill at Selwyn Public School.

Approximately 45 students were absent on Wednesday out of 246 total along with two staff members.

TDSB spokesperson Ryan Bird tells CityNews while they have not been able to confirm a norovirus outbreak the symptoms reported to Toronto Public Health are similar.

Bird added officials plan to do a thorough cleaning of the school including washrooms, doorknobs, fountains and other surfaces.

If you catch a norovirus, doctors say you should stay home for 48 hours even after the symptoms disappear.