Information on Potential Norovirus Exposure and Simple Preventative Measures You Can Take
February 3, 2017 1:30 PM
SANTA MONICA, CA -- It was announced yesterday by the Santa Monica-Malibu School District (SMMUSD) that students from John Adams Middle School (JAMS) were potentially exposed to a gastrointestinal illness, possibly norovirus. SMMUSD is working with the L.A. County Department of Public Health (Public Health) to investigate the cause and prevent further illness.
Public Health provided the following information to protect yourself from norovirus:
- Wash your hands really well with soap and water, especially before eating or preparing food, and after using the toilet or changing diapers. Hand sanitizer is less effective than soap and water.
- People who are sick with norovirus should stay home to avoid getting others sick and should not prepare food while they have symptoms (diarrhea or vomiting) and for 2 days after they recover.
- Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces using a bleach-based household cleaner. Wash clothing or bedding as soon as possible after being soiled by diarrhea or vomit.
More information is available at www.ph.lacounty.gov/acd/Norovirus.htm. Frequently asked questions are available in Spanish and English.
For more information from SMMUSD, visit www.smmusd.org.
"In the coming days, take preventative measures like washing your hands more frequently and using disinfectants," said Mayor Ted Winterer. "We want everyone to stay healthy and to prevent more children and others in the community from becoming ill.";
Media Contact
Constance Farrell
Communications & Public Information Manager
Constance.Farrell@santamonica.gov
Departments
More Information
http://www.ph.lacounty.gov/acd/Norovirus.htm
http://www.smmusd.org