Johnson County Health Officials Confirm Norovirus Outbreak at Bentwood Elementary
Health authorities in Johnson County, Kansas, have officially declared a norovirus outbreak at Bentwood Elementary School in Overland Park. Approximately 85 cases were reported over the past week, with two confirmed via laboratory testing and the remainder classified as epidemiologically linked. The Johnson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) is collaborating with school administrators to monitor the situation and prevent further transmission. Although absence rates spiked early last week, they have since declined significantly. The school has implemented enhanced sanitation protocols, including daily cleaning with hospital-grade disinfectants and additional weekend deep-cleaning. Officials advise that individuals with symptoms should remain home for at least 48 hours after recovery to curb the spread of the highly contagious virus.