100 Students Sick Due to Norovirus in Lamar County

More than 100 students became very sick last week at South Lamar High School with what is now being called a norovirus.  Norovirus is a very contagious virus that can infect anyone. You can get it from an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces. The virus causes your stomach or intestines or both to get inflamed. This leads to stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea and vomiting. These symptoms can be serious for some people, especially young children and older adult according to the Alabama Department of Health. 

The investigation into the source of the norovirus at the school continues today and Principal Jason Williams said all students were given excused absences.

According to the WBRC, Dr. Albert White, a state health officer, said the department tested food samples in the cafeteria for possible contamination and sought out stool samples from sick students to test.  More information is coming later this week.

The illness appears limited to only students and staff at South Lamar High School.  The ADPH says repeated hand washing can stop it from spreading.  It's also important to prepare food correctly by washing fruits and vegetables before eating, cooking shellfish thoroughly, cleaning any contaminated surfaces and clothing/bedding and never prepare food for others when you're sick.

For more updates, listen to the Wild Bill Show on 953 The Bear, today at 4:30 & 6:30.  Lets remember these neighbors in our prayers today!  :)