Thrissur: A total of 57 people were diagnosed with Norovirus infection at the hostel of St Mary’s College here. The disease has been detected in 54 students and three employees of the hostel. A medical team led by the district medical officer inspected the hostel and premises. 

The health department had recognised the spread when 8 students reached the general hospital of Thrissur for treatment on November 24. The samples of blood, faeces and urine were collected from them and sent to the virology lab in Alappuzha and Government Medical College in Thrissur for virus and bacteria testing respectively. The presence of Norovirus has been diagnosed at the virology laboratory. 

DMO Dr NK Kuttappan said that the virus has been transmitted through water. This is a common disease and the precautions to avoid dehydration is important, added the DMO. 

The students and other employees in the hostel are directed not to leave the hostel until the disease is completely under control. If any students from other districts have gone to their houses, the information shall be passed to the district medical office.