Norovirus-like outbreak associated with Habit Burger Grill in Shoreline
Jun 3, 2021, 6:14 AM
Norovirus can be contracted by coming in contact with an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces. (AP File Photo)
(AP File Photo)
Public Health — Seattle & King County is investigating an outbreak of norovirus-like illness with vomiting, diarrhea, body aches, and chills associated with Habit Burger Grill in Shoreline.
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There are 23 cases reported as of June 3, 2021, from six unrelated meal parties. The people who reported being ill had eaten at Habit Burger Grill between May 21-24. No ill employees have been identified.
On May 26, environmental health investigators visited the restaurant and “did not find any risk factors that are known to contribute to the spread of norovirus.”
The restaurant was required to conduct a thorough cleaning and disinfection, before it was re-visited by investigators on May 28. They conducted onsite food safety and employee illness training with staff and reinforced cleaning, disinfection, handwashing, and no bare hand contact with ready to eat food.
Health investigators will return again within two weeks to ensure compliance.
Habit Burger Grill had an excellent food safety inspection rating.
The department says it is has not identified how norovirus was spread in the restaurant. Norovirus can spread through multiple contaminated food items, environmental surfaces, and from person to person.
