According to the Mountain Mail, a norovirus outbreak at a Subway sandwich shop in Buena Vista, Colorado has sickened at least 20 people. The illnesses occurred in mid-November 2014. Chaffee County Public Health was contacted by five people claiming illness after eating at the restaurant.
Samples from five patients tested positive for norovirus. Most of the patients were students at Buena Vista High School. One employee from the restaurant reported being ill. That employee most likely caused the contamination, according to Victor Crocco, Chaffee County Environmental Health Manager.
No more cases have been reported since November 20, 2014. The restaurant was not closed after the outbreak, but was cited for three “noncritical” violations. Workers at the restaurant cleaned all surfaces in the dining room with bleach after the outbreak.
Norovirus is a very contagious virus and can be passed through contaminated food and drink, through touching contaminated surfaces, and person-to-person. To prevent the spread of the illness, always wash your hands thoroughly before preparing and serving food, after using the bathroom, and before eating. Keep all food contact surfaces clean and avoid cross-contamination. If you are ill, stay home from work and school and do not prepare food for anyone for two to three days after you recover.
