The Loudoun County Health Department has identified more than 135 individuals who reported becoming ill after visiting the Chipotle Mexican Grill at 21031 Tripleseven Road, Sterling, VA 20165 between July 13 and 16, 2017. “Two ill patrons have tested positive for the same strain of norovirus. Based on symptoms reported and these preliminary laboratory results, the cause of the outbreak is believed to be norovirus, though the specific source of the norovirus has not yet been identified,” said Dr. David Goodfriend, director of the Health Department. “The Health Department is not aware of any customers becoming ill since the reopening of the facility last Wednesday.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 6 Americans gets sick from contaminated food each year. Norovirus (sometimes called “stomach flu”) is the most common cause of foodborne illness. People infected with norovirus usually develop symptoms 12 to 48 hours after being exposed to norovirus and most people who are ill get better within one to three days. Frequent hand washing and staying home when sick are two of the most important means of preventing the spread of infection.

The public is encouraged to contact the Loudoun County Health Department at health@loudoun.gov with any questions or concerns.

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