Evanston health officials are investigating a possible norovirus outbreak linked to a dollar-burrito event that was held for Northwestern University students on November 23, 2023. The event, which was sponsored by a local restaurant, offered burritos for one dollar to NU students who showed their student ID. According to the Evanston Health Department, more than 100 students have reported symptoms of norovirus infection, such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain, after attending the event.
Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes acute gastroenteritis, or inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It can spread through direct contact with an infected person, or by consuming contaminated food or water. Norovirus is sometimes called the “stomach flu” or “stomach bug”, but it is not related to the flu, which is caused by influenza virus. Norovirus can cause severe dehydration, especially in young children, older adults, and people with other illnesses. There is no specific treatment for norovirus infection, except for drinking plenty of fluids and getting rest.
The Evanston Health Department is working with the restaurant and the university to identify the source of the outbreak and prevent further transmission. The restaurant has voluntarily closed its doors until the investigation is complete. The health department is also advising anyone who attended the event or has symptoms of norovirus infection to stay home from work or school and avoid preparing food for others until at least 48 hours after their symptoms stop. Anyone who is experiencing severe symptoms, such as bloody diarrhea, high fever, or signs of dehydration, should seek medical attention immediately.
Norovirus outbreaks are common in the United States, especially during the winter months. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), norovirus causes about 20 million cases of acute gastroenteritis each year, resulting in about 70,000 hospitalizations and 800 deaths1. Norovirus outbreaks can occur in any setting where people gather, such as schools, hospitals, nursing homes, cruise ships, and restaurants. The CDC recommends several measures to prevent and control norovirus outbreaks, such as washing hands often, rinsing fruits and vegetables, cooking shellfish thoroughly, and disinfecting surfaces that may be contaminated2.
The Evanston Health Department will provide updates on the outbreak investigation as more information becomes available. For more information on norovirus, visit the CDC website2 or call the Evanston Health Department at (847) 866-2949.
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