UPDATE: The Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health tells WOWO News:

The Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health is working with the Concordia Elementary School to investigate a large number of illnesses which are likely attributed to some sort of virus.  This does not appear to be influenza.  It is likely it may be Norovirus or something similar which is very easily transmissible in a setting like a school.  We are supportive of the school’s decision to close on Friday and allow the illness to likely die down over the weekend.  We have been working with them collaboratively today on education, cleaning tips, and overall prevention of such virus spread in a school setting.  

Our earlier story…

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Concordia Lutheran Elementary and Middle School students will have the day off Friday because of an illness outbreak.

In fact, in a letter sent home with parents Thursday afternoon, they say that they are working with the Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health in investigating possible causes of the outbreak, which has reportedly affected about 20% of students.

They warn that viral gastroenteritis, also known as the stomach flu, is easily spread among children due to poor hand hygiene.

Symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. They usually appear 12 to 48 hours after your child is exposed. If your child is showing symptoms, keep them home and keep them properly hydrated.

If your child goes to Concordia Lutheran Elementary or Middle School, you’re asked to complete a survey, which you can find here. If you have questions, contact the school office at (260) 426-9922.