A sushi restaurant in Raleigh, North Carolina, called Sushi Nine, is currently under scrutiny after over 240 customer reports of illness, dating back to November 28, with the first symptoms reported on that date.
Wake County Environmental Services has confirmed three norovirus cases linked to the restaurant, while the investigation into the remaining cases is ongoing. In response to the situation, the restaurant took voluntary measures by closing for 48 hours on December 5. During this closure, the establishment underwent sanitation procedures, and inspectors examined the premises to identify the source of the outbreak. Following the deep cleaning, Sushi Nine reopened on December 8, with no new cases reported at that time. A sushi restaurant
Although the environmental services agency interviewed more than 170 customers of the restaurant who reported getting sick, pinpointing the exact cause of the outbreak may not be possible. The diners ate a variety of foods, and the agency notes that narrowing down the initial source of contamination is frequently difficult.
According to Mac Schreiber, the manager of the restaurant, Sushi Nine, he believes the outbreak stemmed from an infected person who entered the establishment rather than originating from the restaurant’s kitchens. Norovirus, known for its ability to survive on hard surfaces for several days, can easily spread in crowded environments. In response to the situation, Wake County Public Health is advising individuals who dined at the restaurant between November 28 and December 5 to contact their healthcare provider if they experience any potential symptoms.