Parents say a norovirus outbreak at P.S. 83 Annex in Morris Park has forced more than 100 students to stay home sick over the past few days.

Students were sent home with letters from the city's Department of Education and Department of Health and Mental Hygiene that explained to parents that there has been an increase in gastrointestinal illnesses among students and staff.

The norovirus, or stomach flu as it is commonly called, can easily be spread among school children. Symptoms include diarrhea and vomiting.

Parents are advised to keep their kids home from school if the children exhibit any of those symptoms. It also says most cases resolved themselves in one to two days.

DOE representatives say the school was thorough disinfected Friday, and it will be again over the weekend.