173 People Sickened In D.C. Cobb's Norovirus Outbreak: Health Dept

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — More than 170 people became sick after eating at a D.C. Cobb's in McHenry earlier this year but health officials have not been able to determine what exactly caused the gastrointestinal illnesses.

On Monday, the McHenry County Department of Health released its report into the restaurant, located at 1204 N. Green St. in McHenry. The outbreak investigation was launched after a cluster of illnesses was linked to the food establishment at the end of August, according to a statement from the health department.

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The health department probe identified 173 people who became ill after eating food from the restaurant. Norovirus was identified as the pathogen, but the investigation could not determine exactly how it was introduced into the facility, according to the health department's findings.

“Foodborne illness investigations are a top priority to protect the public’s health. The MCDH investigation team appreciates the cooperation from the public to bring this complex investigation to a close,” said Susan Karras, the health department's director of public health nursing. “The final report demonstrates the dedication and high level of work the MCDH team does every day to protect the public’s health in McHenry County.”

Health officials credited D.C. Cobb employees and management for responding quickly, which helped prevent more illnesses.

“The management of D.C. Cobb’s fully cooperated with the illness investigation team and continues to work with Division of Environmental Health staff to implement additional strategies to prevent future public health concerns,” said Patti Nomm, MCDH’s director of environmental health.

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that spreads quickly from person to person or through contaminated items, and it cannot be treated with antibiotics. Symptoms of norovirus include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain that usually last between 24 and 48 hours.

Routinely cleaning and sanitizing kitchen utensils, counters and surfaces before preparing food can reduce the risk of norovirus. Good hygiene practices are equally important whether or not food is being prepared, according to a new release.

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Probe Into Outbreak Linked To D.C. Cobb's Continues

Health Officials Probe Outbreak Linked To D.C. Cobb's