WestConn Reopens Amid Norovirus, Boil Water Notice

Western Connecticut State University has reopened after officials closed the school Monday in the wake of more than 100 students sickened with a flu-like illness that has since been identified as the norovirus, according to university officials.

WestConn said the illness that had been making students sick is a norovirus.
Photo Credit: *File*

Kathy Reakes

04/25/2018 1:19 p.m.

Students returned to campus on Tuesday to find a water main break in Danbury had caused brown water and low water pressure at the school, but classes are still being held, said Paul Steinmetz, director, University Relations & Community Relations.

Steinmetz said the news the illness was a norovirus was actually good news because it is not transmitted through breathing.

"With a norovirus, it's important for all to wash their hands and not touch their faces, which can be difficult," he added.

To help deal with both the virus and the water main break with boil water notice, school officials have put pallets of bottled water in the bathrooms so students can wash their hands and throughout the school for drinking, Steinmetz said.

Steinmetz said the university is still asking students who are sick to stay home and wait three days before returning.

"The numbers of sick are dwindling which is a good thing," he added.

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