The sanitary authorities have confirmed an outbreak of norovirus at the RNC that came from a California employee who arrived in Cleveland before the convention. Norovirus is a highly contagious disease that causes bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. People who get ailing usually feel better after a few days, but there is a risk of dehydration.
Twelve people reported being ailing.
Brulte said he believes one employee brought the virus to Ohio from California and then passed it on to the employee’s spouse. Soon, 12 of the 36 employees fell ill.
The infected people first showed symptoms on Thursday, and Erie County health officials collected stool samples for analysis, the Plain Dealer reported.
State officials notified the delegation Monday morning about the norovirus outbreak and briefed participants again Tuesday. They also notified Ohio health officials.
Fortunately, most of the ailing are staying at a hotel about an hour outside of Cleveland, so the outbreak has been largely contained. RNC attendees are encouraged to apply hand sanitizer frequently.
Norovirus is the same disease that caused many Chipotle locations that will close earlier this year.
