Letter to the Campus Community
February 2013
TO: Members of the University Community
Within the past day or so, there have been several news reports regarding a suspected outbreak of norovirus at Princeton University. Norovirus is an intestinal virus than can cause symptoms such as low-grade fever, nausea, vomiting and stomach cramping.
Norovirus can be spread by eating foods or drinking liquids contaminated with norovirus; by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus and then putting your hands/fingers in your mouth; having direct contact with someone who is infected with norovirus and sharing food, drinks, utensils, etc., with them. The illness can spread quickly, especially among those living together, and generally lasts 24 to 72 hours from the onset of the symptoms.
To date, our campus has experienced minimal norovirus, but I want to make sure you are aware of the illness and what you can do to protect yourself. I also want to let you know what the University is doing.
Prevention is key!
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after eating or using a restroom. NOTE: Hand sanitizers do not work against norovirus.
- Wash food before preparing it and do not prepare foods if you are infected.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces with a bleach-based cleanser, especially door handles.
- Don’t share towels, utensils, bottles, etc.
- Wash clothing, linens, etc., that may be contaminated.
The University’s Facilities Management staff will be concentrating on additional cleaning and sanitizing surfaces (countertops, restrooms, doorknobs/handles) over the next several days. Food service staff will also be increasing their cleaning and sanitizing practices. We have also discussed our practices with the local Health Department and our Health Services staff.
I would urge you to be mindful of this information. If you are a student and feel ill with any of the symptoms previously noted, contact the Health Center at 732-571-3464 during scheduled clinic hours or the University Police at 732-571-4444 during other times. Employees with symptoms of the norovirus may contact or visit Health Services for medical assistance, if needed.
Should you have any questions regarding this matter, please contact my office or Kathy Maloney, Director of Health Services, at 732-571-3464. Additional information is available on the Health Center’s website at: www.monmouth.edu/campus_life/health_services/norovirus.asp
Sincerely,
Mary Anne Nagy
Vice President for Student and Community Services
