Virus brings wedding woes

29 individuals get sick after attending Ephrata wedding

EPHRATA — On Feb. 8 the Grant County Health District received a report of several illnesses which developed in 29 people who attended a wedding in Ephrata Feb. 4.

Investigations by health officials have led them to believe the illness may be caused by the Norovirus, a virus commonly known to cause stomach illness on cruise ships. Their suspicions were further confirmed Tuesday morning when GCHD officials received word that tests on one individual were positive for Norovirus.

Transmission of the virus occurs when fecal matter is ingested through the mouth.

GCHD environmental health director Jerry Campbell said Tuesday health officials don't believe the food at the wedding, which was prepared and served by a caterer, was responsible for transmission of the virus.

Some of the leftover food prepared for the wedding was eaten a few days later with no reports of illness, Campbell said.

Campbell expects state lab results to reveal more information into the case. Those results are expected some time later this week.

The 29 individuals showed symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea.

Anyone having similar symptoms is encouraged to contact the GCHD at (509) 754-6060.

According to a press release from the GCHD dated Feb. 9, most of those considered ill have recovered and no known cases required a hospital stay.

A total of 55 guests were present at the wedding.

Most of those attending traveled from outside of Grant County and could not be contacted.

The GCHD is continuing its investigation to locate the source of the infection. Laboratory work is being conducted to help determine that information.

Individuals showing symptoms are advised to stay at home or seek medical attention if severely ill.

Washing hands before preparing or eating food is the main method of intervention to stop the virus from spreading.

— Staff report