Health officials in Seattle are closely watching a suspected norovirus outbreak at a restaurant that may have sickened up to 50 people attending a private function.

King County Public Health closed Maggiano’s Little Italy restaurant – located at 10455 NE Eighth Street in Bellevue – and suspended its food business permit as they investigated the Jan. 18 event that may have also affected several of the restaurant workers.

Public health officials stated that pending any laboratory test confirmation, the workers’ symptoms were consistent with norovirus and they may already have been ill prior to the private party, with some symptoms already existing since Jan. 9 and over the following two weeks.

“We are in the early stages of our investigation so information could change,” said health officials in the statement.

According to health officials, they learned of the incident Friday, Jan. 22, and that Maggiano’s is cooperating with them during the investigation.

“[There have been] no other reports of any guest outside of this single party becoming ill,” a spokesperson said. Maggiano's said it has had no confirmed diagnosis of a foodborne illness to date.

The statement added that staff members have thoroughly disinfected the premises of the establishment, and that they are maintaining “strict standards of quality, safety and cleanliness” and training every staff member in proper and safe food handling.

"We are taking this isolated incident very seriously,” part of its statement read.

Public Health warned those who are ill, vomiting, or have diarrhea for over three days – as well as serious signs like bloody diarrhea – to have themselves checked by a doctor.

Norovirus is deemed the most common pathogen causing acute gastroenteritis in the United States. It is responsible for up to 21 million sicknesses and contributes to up to 71,000 hospitalizations and 800 deaths.

The so-called winter vomiting bug attacks the gastrointestinal lining, causing inflamed stomach and intestines. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are just some common symptoms.

The virus may be contracted by both adults and children by being exposed to an infected individual, having contact with infected surfaces, and consuming contaminated food or water.

"One of the most important things you can do to avoid norovirus and other illnesses… is to wash your hands frequently with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds," advised Dr. Karen Smith, California Department of Public Health director.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends washing vegetables and fruits prior to cooking, as well as cooking raw food like oysters thoroughly.

Photo: Joseph Hunkins | Flickr