Norovirus-like illness associated with La Fuente in Renton

Highlights, updated May 19, 2022

Summary

Public Health investigated an outbreak of norovirus associated with vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and chills at La Fuente in Renton.

Illnesses

Since April 13, 2022, 11 people from 3 separate meal parties reported becoming ill after eating food from La Fuente on April 10 and April 12, 2022. We did not identify any ill employees.

Public Health actions

Environmental Health Investigators visited the restaurant on April 15, 2022. Investigators identified improper handwashing and glove use which are risk factors that are known to contribute to the spread of norovirus. The restaurant closed on April 15, 2022, to complete a thorough cleaning and disinfection.

Environmental Health Investigators revisited the restaurant on April 16 and confirmed proper cleaning and disinfection was completed. The restaurant was reopened on April 16, 2022.

Investigators reviewed with restaurant management the requirement that ill staff are not allowed to work until they are symptom-free for at least 48 hours and provided education about preventing the spread of norovirus — including proper handwashing and preventing bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.

Laboratory testing

One individual who reported symptoms tested positive for Norovirus. Often in norovirus outbreaks, no laboratory testing is done because people tend to get better within a day or two. Symptoms among those who got sick are suggestive of norovirus.