Norovirus Outbreak Strikes North Carolina Sushi Restaurant, 241 Affected

A norovirus outbreak originating from a popular sushi restaurant in Raleigh, North Carolina, has left 241 patrons ill since late November. Health authorities have traced the outbreak to Sushi Nine, with all affected individuals having visited the establishment between Nov. 28 and Dec. 5. Norovirus, known for causing symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain, spreads easily, especially during the winter months and holiday gatherings.

(Photo: Food Navigator)

Norovirus Spread Traced to Sushi Nine

The outbreak has been linked to Sushi Nine, a Raleigh-based sushi restaurant, with 241 reported cases of norovirus infection. Health authorities note that all affected individuals visited the establishment during a specific timeframe.

Wake County’s public health and environmental services departments have identified Sushi Nine as the source of the outbreak, urging caution during the holiday season due to the virus’s high contagiousness.

Rebecca Kaufman, Wake County Public Health Director, highlighted the ease of norovirus transmission during winter gatherings and meal-related events, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures.

READ ALSO: More than 240 sickened in norovirus outbreak traced to North Carolina sushi restaurant

Restaurant Manager Denies Food Source, Cites Infected Patron

Sushi Nine’s manager, Mac Schreiber, disputes claims that the norovirus spread through contaminated sushi. Instead, the restaurant believes it originated from a sick patron who visited a few days before the outbreak.

Schreiber clarified that the restaurant underwent voluntary closure on Dec. 5 for thorough cleaning and reopened on Dec. 8, with no new cases reported. He expressed confidence that the illness did not stem from the restaurant’s food.

While Sushi Nine has reopened, health officials continue working with the restaurant, customers, and partners to determine the outbreak’s source and extent, ensuring comprehensive preventive measures.

READ MORE: Sushi Nine outbreak: 241 complaints against restaurant, norovirus found in samples