Stomach bug hitting some Wake schools

Dozens of students have been out sick with symptoms of the virus, including vomiting and severe nausea.

Renee McCoy, a spokeswoman for the Wake County Public School System, said she has not been alerted to an increase of absences but that in order for the school system to track "an outbreak" of something, students would have to be out at least three days and provide a doctor's note.

With the spring holiday, she said, it likely won't be until next week before the district can determine if there is an increased number of absences.

Wake County Public Health Division Director Sue Lynn Ledford says this type of illness among a group like students is common this time of year.

She says it's a great opportunity to encourage and remind people about the importance of hand-washing and isolation.

"In other words, if you're sick, please stay home while you're sick," Ledford said.

She said it's also an ideal time to make sure that schools are following the proper cleaning protocols.

She said parents should be encouraged because the Wake school system has outstanding cleaning processes.