Norovirus-like illness associated with IHOP in Seattle

Highlights, updated May 20, 2022

Summary

Public Health investigated an outbreak of norovirus-like illness associated with vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and chills at IHOP #1755 in Seattle.

Illnesses

Since April 29, 2022, 5 people from one meal party reported becoming ill after eating food from IHOP on April 28, 2022. We did not identify any ill employees.

Public Health actions

Environmental Health Investigators visited the restaurant on May 4th, 2022. Investigators identified improper handwashing which is a risk factor known to contribute to the spread of norovirus-like illness. The restaurant closed on May 4, 2022, to complete a thorough cleaning and disinfection.

Environmental Health Investigators revisited the restaurant on May 5th and confirmed proper cleaning and disinfection was completed. The restaurant was reopened on May 5, 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

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.