Multiple Sickened In Chicago Norovirus Outbreaks
Personal Injury - April 29, 2025
Chicago Department of Public Health Investigating Numerous Norovirus Outbreaks Across the City
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS (April 29, 2025) – Chicago has seen a sharp uptick in the number of Noreau virus cases as the United States is also seeing its highest case number since 2012.
The Cook County Department of Public Health reported 30 cases of Norovirus in December. The illness is commonly referred to as the stomach bug or food poisoning.
According to public health officials, it can be very difficult to stop. Norovirus remains one of the leading causes of diarrhea and vomiting.
Many different things can increase the risk of infection. This includes eating raw or undercooked shellfish.
Liability for Chicago Norovirus Outbreaks
Norovirus outbreaks remain very common across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “During August 1, 2024 – April 9, 2025, there were 2,407 norovirus outbreaks reported by NoroSTAT-participating states. During the same period last seasonal year, there were 1,230 norovirus outbreaks reported by these states.” There are a number of common symptoms associated with norovirus.
- Decreased urination
- Dizziness
- Crying with little to no tears
- Irritability
Depending on the facts of any case, there could be numerous sources of liability for someone contracting norovirus. In particular, restaurants, hotels, schools, nursing homes, and other facilities could potentially be liable for norovirus cases. These businesses may have served contaminated food to guests. It is also possible that they may have failed to follow adequate food safety or hygiene protocols.
A number of lawsuits have been filed after people have contracted norovirus. In particular, Chipotle agreed to pay a $25 million penalty for norovirus cases between 2015 and 2018. It is estimated that over 1100 people became ill after eating at Chipotle within that time. Federal prosecutors said that it was the largest fine ever imposed in a food safety case. Certain steps are taken after contracting norovirus.
- Victims should seek a thorough medical evaluation.
- The source of the contamination should be determined.
- A thorough investigation into the extent of the outbreak should be conducted.
- An experienced personal injury attorney should be contacted.
It can be hard to know what to do if you’ve been injured by a foodborne illness. Many victims will need to take extensive periods of time away from work. They may also be left with high medical bills. For certain segments of the population, the virus can be extremely dangerous. This is particularly true when a person has underlying health conditions. It is important that people understand that they do have legal options if they contract norovirus.
Getting Legal Help After Contracting Norovirus
We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our best wishes to all of the people who contracted norovirus in Chicago. It is our sincere hope that they will be able to make a full recovery. Steps need to be taken to prevent as many of these outbreaks as possible.
Have you or someone that you care about contracted norovirus in Chicago? You may have legal recourse. Our team of personal injury lawyers is here to help in any way that we can. We care deeply that accident victims get the medical and financial support that they need in order to recover. Whether you just have legal questions or are wondering how an attorney might be able to help with your particular situation, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.
