Norovirus Outbreak Shuts Down Pierce County Restaurant

LAKEWOOD, WA - The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department closed a local sports bar and restaurant Thursday after at least eight people complained of a norovirus-like illness.

Foley's on the Green, 7108 Lakewood Drive West, reopened Friday afternoon after a thorough cleaning, according to the county. The people who were sickened reported norovirus symptoms on April 23, 24, and 26 after eating food from Foley's.

“Because norovirus spreads so easily and is environmentally persistent, it’s important for anyone who gets ill to stay home, especially food workers, until they are well,” said Katie Lott, food program manager, in a blog post about the outbreak.

Norovirus causes vomiting and diarrhea, and symptoms usually begin about 24 after someone is exposed to the virus. The illness lasts about 48 hours or less, but victims can still transmit the virus for up to a week after symptoms disappear, according to health officials.

If you ate at the restaurant and got sick, contact TPCHD at food@tpchd.org, report online, or call (253) 798-4712.

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