Norovirus-like illness associated with Pioneer Square D&E in Seattle

Highlights, posted April 17, 2023

Summary

Public Health investigated an outbreak of norovirus-like illness associated with vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and chills at Pioneer Square D&E in Seattle.

We did not identify how norovirus was spread within the restaurant. This is not uncommon for norovirus outbreaks, because the virus can spread through multiple contaminated food items, environmental surfaces, and from person to person.

Illnesses

Nine people from 3 meal parties reported becoming ill after eating food from Pioneer Square D&E on December 16, 19, and 20, 2022. All the people developed one or more symptoms consistent with norovirus-like illness, including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and chills.

We identified one ill employee who reported symptoms consistent with norovirus dating back to December 17, 2022 and did not work while ill.

Public Health actions

These illnesses were reported on December 19, 2022. Environmental Health Investigators visited the restaurant on December 20, 2022. The restaurant closed that same day to complete a thorough cleaning and disinfection.

Environmental Health Investigators revisited the facility on December 22, 2022 and verified proper compliance with food handling practices. The restaurant was reopened that same day.

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

We do not have laboratory testing for the people who got sick. 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-like illness.