By NewsDesk  @infectiousdiseasenews

There is currently two norovirus outbreaks affecting US universities where in total, some 200 people have been affected:

Georgetown University

Image/CDC

In an update on the Georgetown outbreak, Vice President and Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Ranit Mishori notes a total of 145 students, faculty and staff who have reported symptoms that are consistent with a viral gastroenteritis over the last two weeks.

Samples tested at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and others sent to the DC Department of Health have confirmed the presence of norovirus. The number of new cases is low and continuing to decrease.

While the agent is known, what is unknown is the source. Mishori said we have found no link to a food source or any of the dining venues on campus.

Rochester Institute of Technology

In Rochester, NY, a spokesperson with the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)  said roughly 50 students were affected, though a majority of cases were resolved within a day or two without the need for medical treatment. Some students did need to visit the campus’s health center, and a few did have to go to the emergency room.

The Monroe County Department of Public Health on Thursday determined norovirus is likely responsible for recent illnesses on the Henrietta campus.

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that frequently spreads person-to-person and is often associated with food. Norovirus illness often has a sudden onset of nausea and vomiting and/or watery diarrhea with cramps. A low-grade fever, chills, and body aches sometimes occur.

Norovirus rarely causes severe complications. Dehydration is the most common complication, particularly among young children and the elderly.