About 100 people who attended a benefit for the Pelham Picture House in Rye Brook have been sickened with a gastrointestinal illness. The event was held at the Hilton Westchester. Public health officials from Westchester County suspect norovirus is the cause of the illnesses. One person has been hospitalized.
Patients are experiencing diarrhea and vomiting. The Health Department press release states norovirus may be the cause, saying it is “a stomach bug whose symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea. We are reaching out to interview all those who may be affected to help determine the source of the illness and to identify any new cases. We don’t know how many are affected yet.”
Hilton is cooperating with the investigation and released a statement saying the hotel “is making every effort to ensure that all practices and standards are in line with safety and sanitation guidelines.”
Norovirus is extremely contagious and causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines. It spreads rapidly and is transmitted through contaminated food, water, and surfaces. Most people recover without medical treatment, but some, especially those in high risk groups, may need to be hospitalized for dehydration. To prevent norovirus, wash your hands well before eating and before handling food. If you’re sick, stay home.
