A southwestern Louisiana casino norovirus outbreak has left at least 200 people sick and has prompted an investigation by state health officials and the CDC. The outbreak is spreading to nearby parishes. Many people are worried.

About Norovirus

Norovirus infection occurs most frequently in closed and crowded environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, child care centers, schools and cruise ships. Because there are multiple strains of the virus and the fact that the body does not produce a strong immune response to the infection, experts believe it is possible to contract norovirus infection more than once in a lifetime. The CDC and state health officials say norovirus is a highly contagious type of gastrointestinal illness, or stomach virus, that is spread easily from person to person. Many mistake norovirus with the stomach flu. However, norovirus is not related to influenza.

Louisiana Casino Norovirus Outbreak

The Department of Health confirmed that over 200 people contracted norovirus at L’Auberge Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana. However, now the illness is spreading in the Calcasieu and Vernon Parishes. People are contagious when they have symptoms and sometimes up to three weeks after the symptoms leave. However, officials do not know the cause of the initial virus, yet it is spreading quickly. Lake Charles is around 200 miles west of New Orleans.

Health officials have stressed that the illness is not coronavirus. Coronavirus has consumed the headlines over the past few weeks. Currently, there are 900 deaths worldwide with a majority in China.

Help after a Norovirus Infection

When you experience side effects from severe food poisoning, it can have devastating effects on your entire life. A verdict or settlement could also provide compensation for your injuries and damages. The Michael Brady Lynch Firm is currently accepting Norovirus infection injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know was injured by an outbreak of Norovirus poisoning, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation.