UNC officials: Three cases of Norovirus now confirmed

CHAPEL HILL, North Carolina (WTVD) -- UNC Campus Health officials confirmed Monday morning that test results have revealed there are now three cases of Norovirus.

University of North Carolina Campus Health had been treating a "number of students" for symptoms resembling Norovirus.

Last week, one of the cases was confirmed after a female student tested positive for the virus.

RELATED: UNC Campus Health believe Norovirus outbreak 'contained'

The student was part of a sorority, where per Campus Health officials, ''approximately 30 or so' other students displayed symptoms; which include nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.

The first few days of the Greek system's sorority rush week were postponed by the university's Panhellenic Council as a precaution.

READ MORE: UNC treats 'number of students' with norovirus-like symptoms

Campus Health officials have sent a message to students alerting them of the Norovirus that reads in part:

Students with questions should contact Campus Health Services at (919) 966-6573 to speak directly with a registered nurse.

In the meantime, campus and local health officials encourage students, faculty and staff to be aware of the situation and to take the following steps to prevent illness:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and warm running water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food.
• Alcohol-based sanitizers may not always be effective.

If you are sick or are around others who are sick:

• Do not go to school or work or and stay in your residence hall or at home if at all possible.
• Wash and rinse fruits and vegetables carefully before eating them.
• Thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness. First spray the area with a bleach-based disinfectant or diluted household bleach; then clean with the disinfectant wearing disposable gloves. Diluted bleach should be mixed with ratio of water and mixed daily.
• Cleanup waste should be placed in a plastic bag that should be tied and placed in the trash receptacle.
• Immediately remove and wash clothing or linens in hot water and detergent. They may be contaminated after an episode of illness.
• Flush or discard any vomit and/or stool in the toilet and make sure that the surrounding area is kept clean and disinfected.
• If you are ill, prevent dehydration by frequently sipping a non-alcoholic beverage.