More than 140 Children at Elementary School Infected with Norovirus - Norovirus outbreak infects 193 students and teachers in German schools

A norovirus outbreak has struck two schools in Bad Laer, within the Osnabrück region. Over 140 primary pupils and 53 secondary students have fallen ill, along with six teachers. The first cases emerged on Tuesday, with lab results confirming the virus overnight.

The outbreak began at a primary school, where children started showing symptoms on Tuesday. By Wednesday, tests confirmed norovirus as the cause. The virus spreads quickly, leading to sudden vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea, and stomach pain.

Secondary school students soon reported similar symptoms, bringing the total number of infected pupils to 193. Six teachers also tested positive. Despite the rising cases, both schools remain open, with stricter hygiene rules now in place.

School meals are not believed to be the source of the infection. Instead, officials suspect person-to-person contact, as norovirus is highly contagious. Shared surfaces like tables and door handles are being disinfected more frequently. Buffet-style meals in the cafeteria have been suspended to reduce risk.

Health authorities have instructed infected pupils to stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms end. The exact origin of the outbreak remains unknown.

The norovirus outbreak has disrupted routines at both schools, though classes continue with added precautions. Enhanced cleaning and stricter food handling aim to limit further spread. Officials are monitoring the situation closely as investigations into the source continue.