An elementary school in Alexandria, Virginia closed last week after more than 200 students and 30 staff members were sickened with gastroenteritis symptoms. Local health officials believe the cause is norovirus, which is easily spread and very contagious. The school was closed on March 14, 2014 for cleaning and to have all shared surfaces disinfected. The school sent a letter to parents to tell them that some students experienced nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea on Wednesday, but when many more students became ill, they decided to close on Friday. The school was cleaned with a bleach and water solution, and the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems were turned off. HVAC units filters will be changed as part of the cleaning process. To help prevent the spread of … [Read more...]
Outbreak at Waipahu Elementary School in Hawaii was Food Poisoning
Public health officials in Hawaii are confirming that the outbreak of illness at the Waipahu Elementary School in Oahu last week was food poisoning. Apparently, spaghetti cooked the day before wasn't properly reheated the day it was served, which created an environment for bacterial growth. Carbohydrates such as spaghetti and rice can contain bacteria. When they are cooked, bacterial spores are activated. When the foods are not properly refrigerated and reheated to a safe temperature, bacteria can easily grow. Peter Oshiro, head of the Department of Health Sanitation Branch said in a statement, "an inspection and interviews with cafeteria employees revealed food preparation violations that could be corrected with proper training and follow through." More than thirty children were … [Read more...]
