A restaurant in Tacoma, WA, has temporarily closed due to an outbreak of norovirus illness.
The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department reported that the Harvest Buffet at 3121 S. 38th St. was closed Thursday morning. Staff clean and disinfect the restaurant, and all ready-to-eat food is thrown away.
The outbreak was discovered when several people became ill after eating at the restaurant on October 6. According to the health department, the meal was their only shared food source.
Anyone who ate at the restaurant and became ill is asked to contact the health department at food@tpchd.org, report onlineor 253-649-1696.
Symptoms of a norovirus infection may include vomiting and/or diarrhea, nausea, muscle pain, fever and headache. Symptoms typically begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure and can last one to three days. Most people recover without treatment, but some may need medical attention due to dehydration.
People with norovirus infection can easily spread the infection to others. The virus can live on surfaces for a long time.
People who have become ill or anyone who has a sick person in their home should take steps to prevent the virus from spreading. The health department recommends the next steps.
Clean up accidents involving vomit or diarrhea immediately.
Step 1. Remove vomit or poop.
- Pick up the chunks with paper towels or other disposable materials. Wear disposable gloves if available.
- Absorb liquids with absorbent materials. Use kitty litter or dry oatmeal for carpeted areas.
- Double bag and throw away.
- Do not use a vacuum cleaner.
Step 2. Disinfect areas where vomit or poop was present, as well as bathroom surfaces and other things you touch frequently.
- Disinfect hard surfaces with 1 2/3 cups of household bleach per gallon of water. Allow 1 minute of contact time.
- Disinfect all handles and knobs in your home with the bleach solution.
- Bedding (including clothes, towels, napkins): Wash separately in warm water and dry on high.
- Steam clean carpets using the highest heat setting.
- Prevent cross-contamination (use separate sanitary towels for the bathroom and other surfaces).
- Clean and disinfect all used containers (e.g. buckets).
Wash hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Especially after cleaning, using the toilet and before eating.
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