Norovirus Outbreak Affects Nearly 100 at Kansas Elementary School
About 95 students and staff at Bentwood Elementary in Overland Park and two family members fell ill with norovirus, prompting intensified cleaning and public health guidance.
Nearly 100 individuals at Bentwood Elementary School in Overland Park, Kansas, have been diagnosed with norovirus, according to the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment. The first case was reported on October 5, and within a week the school reported a surge of similar illnesses, prompting officials to intervene.
Johnson County health director Charlie Hunt told KCTV that 95 people inside the school and two family members contracted the virus, though he noted the count may be an underestimate because of the illness’s high transmissibility. The school responded by increasing daily disinfection of high-touch surfaces and high-traffic areas, the Olathe School District said.
"It spreads easily in settings such as schools, where students and staff are in close contact," public information officer Ashley Follett said.
"Frequent handwashing with soap and water, thorough cleaning and disinfection of contaminated surfaces, and staying home when sick remain important steps to prevent transmission. Individuals should stay home for at least 48 hours after their symptoms stop," Follett added.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describe norovirus as a highly contagious virus that causes stomach and intestinal inflammation, with symptoms typically appearing 12 to 48 hours after exposure and lasting one to three days. The health department confirmed on Wednesday that no new cases have been reported since October 13 and considers the outbreak over, though officials will continue to monitor the situation.