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Children’s hospital dealing with outbreak of norovirus

“It’s still ongoing and when we get to that point where we haven’t had new cases after a period of time and things are under control we’ll declare that outbreak over,” said MacDonald.

By THE CANADIAN PRESS

CALGARY — Health officials are still trying to control an outbreak of norovirus at the Alberta Children’s Hospital.

Three children are confirmed to have the virus and several staff members have gone home ill.

The first case of norovirus at the children’s hospital was reported last Wednesday.

While three children have tested positive for norovirus, officials admit there could be more as only the first few cases would be confirmed.

Dr. Judy MacDonald says after that point, people who become ill are assumed to have the same organism.

The cases have been contained to two surgical units within the hospital and the sick children have been isolated from the rest of the patients.

Several staff members have also fallen and have been told to stay home.

“It’s still ongoing and when we get to that point where we haven’t had new cases after a period of time and things are under control we’ll declare that outbreak over,” said MacDonald.

Norovirus is a highly contagious illness that causes sudden diarrhea and vomiting. The symptoms usually last a couple of days.

Every year anywhere from forty to sixty outbreaks are reported in Calgary, usually during the winter months.

While most people who contract the virus recover quickly it can be especially dangerous in children and those with compromised immune systems.

Health officials say the Alberta Children’s Hospital is undergoing a thorough cleaning to try and control the spread of the virus. Visitors to the hospital are being limited to immediate family only.

Health officials have also closed all common areas and playrooms on the affected wards as a precaution.