The halls around Delta Secondary School were looking a lot emptier than usual Friday as the school continues to deal with a suspected outbreak of Norovirus.
Principal Terry Ainge said that attendance at the school was down to about 40 per cent Friday and a number of teachers were also absent.
“I think what we’re seeing is a lot of folks are staying home as a precaution,” he said.
Fraser Health confirmed this week that about 300 students at the Ladner high school fell ill in a probable Norovirus outbreak. On Thursday, scores of students either called in sick or fell extremely ill while at school with the telltale signs of the hardy and highly contagious virus. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting as well as headaches.
Ainge said additional staff was brought in Thursday night to do extensive cleaning around the school. Extra cleaning staff is also scheduled for Friday.
The school is working with Fraser Health, and the health authority is interviewing some of the staff and students who have been sick.
The school district is urging those who believe they may have the virus to stay home, as well as get plenty of rest and liquids. It is recommended that students and staff stay home for two days after their symptoms stop.
