Thompson Rivers University

Health Update – Norovirus

January 16, 2012

Flu Buster

Proper handwashing can prevent many illnesses.

News reports have been released regarding eight TRU students possibly exposed to norovirus during a visit to Victoria over the weekend. All of these individuals have been asked to stay away from campus until they are no longer at risk of being contagious.

TRU has communicated with each of them today. Each of the students will be asked not to return until we give a green light, which will be done in consultation with the Interior Health communicable disease unit. Their faculties have been informed of their absence and will offer the students academic support to ensure they are able to keep up their course load.

Students and staff are reminded that simple hand washing is the best prevention for illnesses such as colds and flu.

If there are any symptoms reported on campus, TRU will follow preset protocols designed by the Interior Health Authority, including extra precautions during cleaning procedures to safe guard our students, faculty and staff. If needed, the hours of operation of the medical clinic on campus are 08:30 am to 04:00 pm. Appointments can be arranged by contacting the Medical Office Assistant at (250) 828-5126. In case of emergency, 24 hours-a-day assistance can be summoned by dialing local 1111 or 911 on any of the campus security phones.

Stacey Jyrkkanen
Manager, Occupational Health & Safety
Room OM1474
Phone: 250-371-5805
sjyrkkanen@tru.ca