This weekend, following a large teen event, multiple participants reported gastrointestinal illness. UUC has been in contact with Public Health–Seattle & King County to conduct a collaborative investigation and response plan.

The symptoms have been similar to those of norovirus, a common cause of viral gastroenteritis outbreaks. People who have norovirus infection are typically sick for 1-2 days (though some may not totally recover for several days). Because norovirus infection is easily transmitted from person to person, Public Health recommends we all follow these guidelines to prevent spread:

• Frequently wash your hands, especially after toileting and before eating or preparing food. hands should be washed with warm water and soap for a minimum of 20 seconds.
• Immediately remove and wash clothing or linens that may be contaminated with feces or vomitus (use hot water and soap).
• Persons who are experiencing symptoms of gastrointestinal illness can be contagious for a few days after they are feeling better. Therefore, students should not attend class and adults should not work until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.

UUC closed the church on Monday and Tuesday. Staff have been hard at work cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms, Nathan Johnson Hall, Knatvold, and other rooms, as well as arts and crafts supplies, to prevent any further spread. We re-opened the church for limited use on Wednesday. We are investigating options for a deeper clean of carpets throughout the building. A big shout out to Alberto Sandoval and Floyd Williams, two of UUC’s custodial staff, whose swift and thorough response has helped ensure this illness hasn't spread.

There have been no reported cases in the wider congregation. However, if you attended church on Sunday, October 13 and have had symptoms, or if members of your family have had any symptoms consistent with norovirus, please report your experience to office@uuchurch.org. We are continuing to work with Public Health in tracking possible spread of this outbreak.

If you have symptoms that are not resolving, please contact your health care provider as this could indicate a more serious illness. For more information about norovirus, including the fact sheet in different languages, go to https://kingcounty.gov/depts/health/communicable-diseases/disease-control/norovirus.aspx.