RSOE Emergency and Disaster Information Service

2010-03-20 04:06:39 - Epidemic Hazard - USA

EDIS CODE: EH-20100320-25380-USA
Date & Time: 2010-03-20 04:06:39 [UTC]
Area: USA, State of Florida, Palm Beach County, Boca Raton

Not confirmed information!

Description:

Outbreaks of norovirus are being reported throughout Palm Beach County and around the state, according to health officials. Norovirus, commonly known as a "stomach flu," is associated with vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and stomach cramping, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Despite the name, it is not associated with the regular flu, which is caused by the influenza virus. "Norovirus is popping up all over the state," said Timothy O'Connor, a spokesman for the Palm Beach County Health Department. "We had a number of reports in Palm Beach County last month and just this week we have had a couple of adult living facilities in south county reporting a number of cases. This is something we see in congregate living facilities fairly often." Indeed, the Classic Residence by Hyatt assisted and independent living facility in Boca Raton said it started noticing norovirus symptoms in some community members last Tuesday. The facility called in the outbreak to the county health department and implemented protocols to safeguard residents. "We haven't had an outbreak like this in three years," said executive director Margie Longstreth. "It's everywhere. It's very very contagious." She said that Classic Residence shut down the dining hall and instead gave room service to all its guests. "The residents are so social, and they're getting so bored, but I don't want them to get sick," Longstreth said, adding that the facility hasn't seen any symptoms in the last couple days. The norovirus illness, which often begins suddenly, usually runs its course in a couple days. While not normally considered very serious, it can be more severe for elderly people and those with weak immune systems. Dehydration can be a factor for people who have trouble replacing lost fluids.

The name of Hazard: Norovirus
Species: Human
Status: Confirmed

Posted:2010-03-20 04:06:39 [UTC]