The outbreak at Sawmill Creek Convention Center in Huron Ohio was caused by tainted food, according to the Sandusky Register. Fecal bacteria was found on the ham and turkey lunch meat served to attendees.
Almost eighty people were sickened with vomiting, nausea, stomach pains, and diarrhea. Officials suspect norovirus caused the outbreak, but they can’t pinpoint the absolute cause. The illnesses began during and after the convention, which was held September 10 – 13, 2013.
Test results showed “significant amounts” of fecal bacteria contamination. Almost all of those sickened ate the salad. The food can’t be tested for norovirus, but fecal bacteria shows that conditions are ripe for contamination.
Norovirus is spread when anyone who is sick doesn’t wash their hands well after using the bathroom, then prepares and serves food. Symptoms usually occur one to two days after infection and can last from one to five days. Most people recover without treatment, but some people can be ill enough to be hospitalized.
