Rockdale County elementary school closes due to Norovirus outbreak

ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. (FOX 5 Atlanta) - A Rockdale County elementary school will be closed Wednesday and Thursday to prevent the spread of further illnesses.

Pine Street Elementary School has been hit by a gastrointestinal illness, school official report.

A statement to parents posted to their website reads in part:

“Our school is working closely with the Rockdale County Health Department to determine the cause of illness and to put in place measures to reduce the spread of illness.”

School officials said they plan to reopen on Friday but ask parents of students who still are showing signs of illness to remain home.

Health officials believe it is a form of Norovirus with symptoms of nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. It can easily be spread through contaminated food, drinks, and surfaces.

Health officials recommend handwashing and cleaning of commonly touched surfaces.