Norovirus Definition, Signs & Treatment: Bellevue Maggiano Closed by Health Officials due to Possible Outbreak

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Norovirus continues to make headlines, as another case broke out in Bellevue, Washington, The Seattle Times reports. A Maggiano’s Little Italy restaurant in Bellevue has been closed by health authorities after a suspected outbreak of norovirus food poisoning occurred, victimizing 50 people at a private event held on Jan. 18.

According to health officials, several workers were already showing symptoms of norovirus, however, test results have not yet confirmed this.

Norovirus is a contagious virus which can be picked up from an infected person, contaminated food or water, or contact with contaminated surfaces, CDC reports. The virus then causes inflammation of the stomach or intestines, or both, often called acute gastroenteritis. Symptoms include stomach pains, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Every year, about 19 to 21 million illnesses and about 56,000 to 71,000 hospitalizations are linked to norovirus, which is also known as stomach flu or winter vomiting disease.

According to The Compton Herald, there is also an increase in norovirus cases in California. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) confirmed 32 cases in the state since Oct. 1, 2015, most likely leading to numerous reported illnesses across California.

"One of the most important things you can do to avoid norovirus and other illnesses this winter season is to wash your hands frequently with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds," CDPH Health Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith recommended. "This is especially important after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food. Hand sanitizers are not effective against norovirus."

Aside from frequent hand washing, safe food handling practices are also highly recommended. Health authorities encourage thorough washing of fruits and vegetables, and cleaning and disinfecting food preparation tools and equipment, kitchen surfaces, and cooking all meats, fish, and poultry well.

According to WebMD, norovirus does not respond to antibiotics that kill bacteria, and there is no antiviral drug that can currently treat noroviruses. Instead, those who contract the virus are encouraged to consume a lot of liquids to prevent dehydration. Children are recommended to be given oral rehydration solution to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, and to avoid sugary drinks, which worsens diarrhea, and caffeinated drinks, which contributes to dehydration.

Last December, a new strain of norovirus hit Minnesota, and the Minnesota Department of Health warned against this new strain called GII.17 Kawasaki, which first broke out early 2015.

"Every few years, a new strain of norovirus emerges and causes many illnesses. We don’t know yet if this new strain will lead to an increase in the number of outbreaks reported, but it could. If we’re meticulous about washing our hands and handling food properly, we may be able to limit the impact," foodborne disease epidemiologist at MDH Amy Saupe explained. "Norovirus tends to hit especially hard during the winter season, so now is a good time to get in the handwashing and norovirus prevention habit."