Administrators at a Nova Scotia university are dealing with a suspected Norwalk virus outbreak that has sickened 25 students.

The rash of illnesses follows on the heels of an outbreak that began last week at Mount Allison University in Sackville, N.B. that made more than 300 people ill and caused the cancellation of classes.

Public health officials have now confirmed that the bug that swept across that campus was Norwalk. On Wednesday the university was given the all-clear to resume extra-curricular activities.

Reports of Norwalk-type symptoms first began to surface at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish over the weekend.

Students reported symptoms including diarrhea and vomiting.

So far, no students have been admitted to hospital, but four more cases were reported overnight Tuesday.

Mark MacAuley, the St. FX health director, said it's too early to say whether there is a link between the outbreaks at the two universities.

Public health officials in Antigonish are working with the university administration to decide how best to respond.

In the meantime, staff are working to disinfect the university and make hand sanitizer available to students on campus. They were also providing students with sports drinks and water to keep students hydrated.

Symptoms of Norwalk include acute diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting, as well as headaches and fever.

The most effective ways to avoid developing the gastrointestinal virus are as follows:

• Wash hands with soap and warm water after toilet visits and before preparing or eating food;
• Cook all shellfish thoroughly before eating;
• Wash raw vegetables before eating;
• Dispose of sewage in a sanitary manner;
• Food handlers with symptoms of Norwalk-like illness should not prepare or touch food.

With files from The Canadian Press