How to prevent norovirus and Salmonella infection?

Question

Hi doctor.

I am a kitchen manager at a busy college cafeteria, and twelve students became sick with norovirus after eating here yesterday. The health department is involved, and I am freaking out. Three of my staff members also called in with severe vomiting and diarrhea. One student became so dehydrated that she ended up in the emergency room. We followed all protocols, but something went wrong. I noticed that the salad bar temperature was running a bit high (42 degrees Fahrenheit) last week. How do we stop this from spreading? The dorms are starting to report more cases!

Kindly guide.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

It could be norovirus or possibly Salmonella typhoid, as such diseases spread through the oral-fecal route.

The preventive measures to be taken include:

Washing hands thoroughly after using the restroom and avoiding the consumption of the same contaminated food.

Food should always be freshly cooked.

To prevent dehydration, you should drink electrolytes such as lemon water with salt and sugar. You can also take an oral rehydration solution (ORS).

Medical treatment is necessary when symptoms are severe, such as extreme weakness, multiple episodes of vomiting, and diarrhea. In such cases, antibiotics and intravenous fluids are administered.

If you have any other concerns, please let me know.

Thank you.