Back to School: Outbreaks! August 19, 2016

As students and staff head into back to school season, it’s not just the curriculum that’s on their mind. In the past year, it seems like the number of outbreaks has increased greatly, especially those linked to Norovirus and other dangerous pathogens. One recent example occurred in June 2016 at Laguna Middle School in San Luis, CA when over 80 students and a staff member contracted Norovirus after gathering for an end of the year potluck lunch. As a result the eighth grade dance was postponed and other precautions were taken to prevent further spread of the virus. Laguna Middle School is not alone. Below is a list of other schools and colleges that had outbreaks this past school year. Some of the names may be surprising including Harvard University, Ursinus College, and other primary schools throughout the country.

What is your school doing to prevent the next outbreak? “No Touch” technologies such as UVC Cleaning Systems Inc. whole room ultraviolet C disinfection could help prevent the spread of infection. Contact us today to find out how we can help in the fight!

Aug 2016

Reno, NV Alice Smith Elementary

Norovirus

http://www.ktvn.com/story/6660868/norovirus-closes-elementary-school-in-reno

April 2016

Cambridge, MA Harvard University

Mumps

http://www.cnn.com/2016/04/27/health/harvard-university-mumps-outbreak/

February 2016

Philadelphia, PA Ursinus College

Norovirus

http://www.eater.com/2016/2/15/11008590/ursinus-college-norovirus-outbreak

March 2016

Charlotte, NC Union County Elementary

Chicken Pox

http://www.charlotteobserver.com/living/health-family/article64604577.html

May 2016

Tipton, MO Tipton School District

Shingella

http://www.abc17news.com/news/shigella-sickens-students-in-tipton-school-as-academic-year-ends/39520020

September 2015

Mccamey, TX Mccamey School District

MRSA

http://www.newswest9.com/story/29937137/mccamey-isd-reacts-to-confirmed-case-of-mrsa

June 1026

San Luis, CA Laguna Middle School

Norovirus

http://www.sanluisobispo.com/news/health-and-medicine/article83362952.html

March 2016

Miami, FL South Florida Elementary

Norovirus

http://wfla.com/2016/03/15/norovirus-at-florida-school-sickens-dozens-of-students/

January 2016

Tallahassee, FL Leon County Preschool

Whooping Cough

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/whooping-cough-outbreak-in-fl-leads-to-vaccine-investigations_us_5697c1ece4b0778f46f84f58