Norovirus infections sicken over 100 students in Guangdong school

Health authorities in Foshan, Guangdong province, confirmed on Saturday that a recent cluster of illnesses at Xinghui Senior High School Affiliated to CCNU was caused by norovirus, with 103 students infected, though all reported in stable condition, Xinhua News Agency reported.

Norovirus is a common pathogen that causes acute gastroenteritis, with primary symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea. Information from the Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that the province enters a seasonal peak for norovirus infections from October through March. Schools and kindergartens are considered high-risk locations for the occurrence and transmission of such outbreaks.

Upon identifying the situation, local health and disease control authorities swiftly activated an emergency response. Teams were dispatched to the site immediately to conduct epidemiological investigations, enhance professional disinfection guidance, and coordinate administrative measures.

Authorities are also guiding the school to strengthen its health education initiatives, utilizing various channels to disseminate preventive knowledge and promote healthy living habits among students and staff.

In addition, the school has implemented its contingency plan, which includes comprehensive campus disinfection and stringent adherence to daily health monitoring protocols such as morning and afternoon checks, as well as rigorous tracking of student absences due to illness.