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Kumatori Schools Close After 280 Report Gastrointestinal Illness

Health officials are investigating possible infectious or foodborne causes.

Overview

  • The town reported 280 people affected, including about 230 students and 50 staff members.
  • Cases with diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain and some fevers were confirmed across all eight municipal elementary and junior high schools.
  • The education board suspended classes on March 19 and ordered temporary closures through March 22.
  • School lunches were canceled, with service also halted on March 23, according to local authorities.
  • The Izumisano Public Health Center is examining norovirus, other gastroenteritis, or school-meal links, and no hospitalizations have been reported.