The UCPA center at La Plagne has fallen victim to a norovirus outbreak. | Image: UCPA La Plagne 1800 IGNearly 100 teenagers at a holiday center in La Plagne, France, have fallen ill with a highly contagious virus, prompting an ongoing investigation by local authorities.
Emergency services were called on Tuesday, March 31, to a Union des Centres Sportifs de Plein Air (UCPA) center in the resort, where around 20 firefighters and multiple medical teams examined 89 people — mostly teenagers — suffering from vomiting and diarrhea. No hospitalisations were required, according to the Savoie prefecture.
Authorities have since confirmed that the outbreak was caused by norovirus, a fast-spreading form of gastroenteritis often found in close-contact environments such as camps and schools. At its peak, up to 97 children aged 11 to 13 were affected, many experiencing fatigue, repeated vomiting, and dehydration.
Witnesses described scenes of multiple teenagers becoming ill in quick succession, with some reportedly lying in corridors after symptoms came on suddenly. Emergency responders, including seven doctors, were deployed to manage the situation and assist those affected.
Officials said early testing ruled out food poisoning, with further checks on water systems and ventilation also returning reassuring results. Health authorities believe the virus was likely introduced by a single individual before spreading rapidly through the group.
The UCPA said precautionary measures, including isolating the sick in a bid to stop the spread, were quickly implemented. The organisation added that the situation is gradually improving, with some participants already recovering and resuming activities. However, a small number of new cases were still being reported as of April 1.
Local officials noted that a similar incident occurred earlier in the winter at the same facility, though no lasting cause was identified.
French health authorities continue to monitor the situation as the resort remains busy during the late-season ski period.
The UCPA (Union des Centres Sportifs de Plein Air) is a French non-profit organization that offers all-inclusive, affordable adventure sports holidays, particularly popular with young people aged 18 to 39. Its programs include activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and summer outdoor sports, with packages typically covering accommodation, meals, lift passes, equipment hire, and professional instruction.
