The report this morning out of the NCAA Championships is that the mysterious virus that has ravaged the NCAA Championships is the dreaded Norovirus, which is ironically named after the town of Norwalk, Ohio, which is just 100 miles outside of Columbus.
The Norovirus causes all of the typical gastroenteritis symptoms – vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain – and usually begins to manifest 24-48 hours after exposure. It is HIGHLY contagious, and all of this means that there could still be new cases reported during the weekend. Assuming the athletes are properly treated, they are not in any grave danger, as most of the 300 deaths caused by the disease in the U.S. every year are a result of weak immune systems and not treating the dehydration that can accompany the symptoms. Athletes with O blood type, however, should take extra care, as they will be more suceptible.
Athletes have been instructed by the NCAA to not go to the natatorium until 48 hours after they last exhibit symptoms. Yeah, right. T-30 minutes until the meet starts!
