Related Experiment Videos Green salad consumption was linked to a Norwalk virus outbreak in a New Jersey restaurant, causing widespread illness including diarrhea and nausea. Further testing confirmed a rise in Norwalk virus antibody titers in affected individuals.
You might also read
Related Articles Articles linked to this work by shared authors, journal, and citation graph.
Same author Same journal Same Topic
Area of Science:
Epidemiology Public Health Infectious Diseases Background:
Foodborne illness outbreaks pose significant public health risks. Identifying the source and causative agent of outbreaks is crucial for prevention. Purpose of the Study:
To investigate a suspected foodborne illness outbreak at a New Jersey restaurant. To identify the food vehicle responsible for the outbreak and the etiological agent. Main Methods:
Retrospective cohort study involving restaurant patrons from December 6, 1979. Interviews to collect data on food consumption and illness symptoms. Serological testing for Norwalk virus antibody titers.
Related Experiment Videos
High attack rates observed in two banquet groups (92.7% and 80.6%), with no illness in a third group.
Illness symptoms included diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, cramps, and fever, with a median incubation of 31 hours.
Green salad consumption was significantly associated with illness (p<0.0001) in banquet groups and other patrons.
Serologic studies indicated a fourfold or greater rise in antibody titer to Norwalk virus in patients. Conclusions:
Green salad served at the restaurant was identified as the likely source of the outbreak. The outbreak was attributed to Norwalk virus infection. This investigation highlights the importance of food safety in preventing viral gastroenteritis outbreaks.