Norovirus Outbreak in Seattle Tower Leaves at Least 150 Sick
Published at | Updated at
iStock/Thinkstock(SEATTLE) — A norovirus outbreak has hit Seattle, sickening at least 150 people who were at Russell Tower last week.
About 600 people attended a catered event in Russell Investments Center last Tuesday and at least 200 were recently surveyed by Public Health — Seattle & King County with 150 reporting norovirus symptoms.
Public Health — Seattle & King County expects the numbers to grow.
According to the Seattle Times, Dr. Meagan Kay a medical epidemiologist with Public Health — Seattle & King County said at least two people have been hospitalized and eight people received emergency room attention.
The health department decided to close all food establishments inside the building as a precaution and underwent “a thorough disinfection” over the weekend.
Norovirus is very contagious, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and can be caught by “an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces.” To avoid catching norovirus, it’s best to wash your hands and maintain proper hygiene.
Russell Investments Center houses Russell Investments, Zillow, the Seattle Art Museum and more.
Copyright © 2015, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.