Lafayette College closes as dozens ill with norovirus

EASTON, Pa. – State health officials say dozens of students and staff at an eastern Pennsylvania college have been infected by norovirus.

Administrators shut down Lafayette College until Monday and are encouraging students to return home. The move is intended to prevent highly contagious norovirus from spreading.

The Easton college had said 47 students sought treatment over the weekend "for symptoms consistent with a contagious stomach virus."

Lafayette President Alison Byerly says in an email to the college community that the campus will be cleaned and sanitized through the weekend.

Dr. Jennifer Janco of St. Luke's University Health Network says most people recover from the virus in a few days after experiencing symptoms.

Last month, more than 200 students reported symptoms of a stomach virus at another Pennsylvania school, Ursinus College, prompting cancellation of classes and activities.