"Food Handler's Illness Triggers Norovirus Outbreak Sickening Over 300"
A norovirus outbreak that affected over 300 people in Tazewell County, Illinois, has been linked to a sick food handler at a restaurant. The outbreak occurred during Thanksgiving week, with symptoms including vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. Investigators determined that the food handler had ungloved contact with salad, toppings, and dressings during food preparation. The salad was identified as the likely source of contamination. The restaurant voluntarily closed for disinfection and implemented measures to educate food handlers on hand hygiene. The outbreak extended beyond the county, with cases reported in other Illinois counties and 12 additional states. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus and the leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S.