10 Sickened With Suspected Norovirus After Eating At Renton Restaurant

RENTON, WA — At least 10 diners from two meal parties fell ill with suspected norovirus after eating meals at La Fuente in Renton, according to Public Health - Seattle & King County. Health officials said both parties became sick after eating at the restaurant on April 10.

Public health investigators visited the kitchen on April 15 and reported improper handwashing and glove practices, which officials said often contribute to norovirus spread. The restaurant closed for deep cleaning, and the county cleared it to reopen the next day after the public health team met with management to review proper safety procedures to limit the potential for food contamination.

Prior to the outbreak, the restaurant had an "excellent" food safety rating — the highest tier assigned based on routine inspections.

Norovirus infections generally exhibit unpleasant, but mild, symptoms, but it is highly contagious and can easily spread to others who come in contact with someone who is infected. In rare cases, the illness can result in severe complications, especially among young children and elderly people.

To help reduce the chance of catching or spreading norovirus, the county recommends that residents and workers:

• Wash hands, cutting boards, and counters used for food preparation immediately after use to avoid cross-contamination of other foods.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap after using the bathroom or changing diapers, and before preparing any food or eating.
• Wait at least 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting and/or diarrhea before preparing any food for others.