The CDC‘s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) includes a report titled, "Norovirus Outbreak Associated with Ill Food-Service Workers — Michigan, January–February 2006" this week.  In it, we learn that:

  • norovirus informationOn January 30, 2006, the Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) in Michigan was notified of gastrointestinal illness in several members of two dining parties after a meal at an Eaton County restaurant on January 28.
  • BEDHD began an investigation to identify the source and agent of infection
  • Norovirus genogroup I (GI) was detected in stool specimens submitted by multiple patrons and employees.
  • Several food-service workers had been ill during January 19–February 3, 2006, and that a line cook had vomited in the restaurant on January 28, possibly increasing environmental contamination and transmission of virus.
  • At least 364 restaurant patrons became ill with norovirus during the outbreak. 

Norovirus is easily spread in restaurant settings.  This week’s food safety infosheet from the International Food Safety Network (iFSN) focuses on norovirus, the symptoms of norovirus illness, and its source – poop.