Babson College closed its doors on Saturday because of a likely norovirus outbreak. More than 100 students and staff have reported nausea, vomiting and diarrhea since March 25, according to college and health officials.

 

“No one is going to be allowed in. Also, they want the students who are there to stay there, so they can contain the process of transmission,” Marcia Testa-Simonson, of the Wellesley Board of Health, said.

 

Norovirus causes the stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis. Norovirus outbreaks are often linked to ill handlers and contaminated food or water. People infected with the gastrointestinal virus usually experience diarrhea and/or vomiting mostly. The virus is generally spread from person to person by direct contact and/or by touching contaminated surfaces or objects.

 

Although the illness usually lasts 1 to 2 days and is not considered serious for the general population, young children, the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, may develop more severe complications and should ask for a healthcare provider’s help.

 

Babson College has about 3,400 undergraduate and graduate students. It’s expected to be closed until at least Wednesday while campus buildings are sanitized, Dr. Alfred DeMaria, of the state Department of Public Health's communicable disease control division, said.

 

Students have been given their own disinfectants to wipe down bedroom and bathroom surfaces and college staff have also increased their work.