Archived Alerts (Inactive)
Archived Alerts (Inactive)
University continues to monitor regional Norovirus cases
Over the weekend, four cases of students with gastrointestinal issues were reported to university officials. In each case, cleaning crews disinfected the reported area with bleach. The university is continuing to monitor the situation and cleaning crews are standing by. Students, faculty and staff who do not have symptoms of the virus should continue to practice good hygiene, including washing hands often (remember to always wash for 20 seconds).
Information on regional Norovirus cases
Several days ago, a norovirus appeared in the region and affected a large number of students at nearby Hampden-Sydney College. Longwood University is working closely with Centra Southside Hospital and other outside agencies to stay informed about the spread of this highly contagious virus, and so far we have seen only a handful of cases on campus.
Longwood has taken several steps to prevent the spread of the virus, including:
- Cleaning staff has been stepping up cleaning efforts, including using stronger chemicals to clean common areas, bathrooms, doorknobs, handrails and other surfaces that are in use by a large portion of the university community.
- Cleaning staff are on call to respond to incidents where bodily fluids may pose a risk to the campus community.
- Bleach wipes will be available by this evening at the front desks of residence hall buildings for use by students to clean their living spaces.
- University staff is communicating Centra Southside Hospital and other local agencies to stay informed about the virus to make the best decisions for the campus.
If you come in contact with bodily fluids on campus, please request housekeeping services immediately by calling 395-2310 or the Facilities Work Request number at 395-2373. If it is after 5 p.m., call the police dispatch number at 2091.
There are several preventative measures that all students, faculty and staff should take to help ward off this virus: Wash hands often for at least 20 seconds each time, stay hydrated, clean rooms and wash laundry. Using hand sanitizer that is at least 70% alcohol with help prevent the flu virus, but will not kill the norovirus.
If you come down with the virus, clean up all vomit or stool with a mixture of bleach and soapy water, push fluids by taking sips of water or sports drinks, and try to rest. A significant health risk associated with this virus is dehydration. Some of the most common signs of significant dehydration are dizziness, severe abdominal cramps and headache. If you experience no break between spells of vomiting and diarrhea, seek immediate medical attention.
Related Resources:
Notice: Roads may refreeze
NOTICE: Roads may refreezePlease be aware that continuing freezing temperatures and precipitation through the night may result in hazardous driving conditions tomorrow morning. Please continue to exercise caution and use reasonable judgment if you commute to Farmville.
NOTICE: Testing of mass alert system
NOTICE: Testing of mass alert systemWorkers are performing maintenance on the mass alert system and may test the alarm system today. The announcement will state that testing is ongoing.
Notice: Sleet in forecast
Faculty, staff and students,Weather forecasts call for a sustained period of sleet coming in from the southeast beginning tonight at midnight and lasting into the morning. Please be aware of weather conditions and continue to exercise caution as you travel to campus tomorrow.
Notice: Potential Hazardous Weather
Faculty, staff and students,There is the potential for inclement weather this evening and through the night that may make driving conditions hazardous, especially north and west of Farmville. Please exercise caution while traveling to and from campus tomorrow.
All Clear
NOTICE: Campus is secure. Police are still seeking two suspects, so continue to practice caution and report suspicious behavior.Robbery
There has been a robbery on South Street. Suspects were last seen in the vicinity of S. Virginia Street. Please practice caution and report any suspicious behavior to police at 434-395-2091. One suspect in custody. Additional suspects described by the victims as two black males, one wearing a black coat, white hoodie and was last seen wearing a camouflage mask. No further description on the 3rd suspect.