Norovirus Outbreak Sickens 97 People At Maine Beach

Wood Pond Beach

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention released its findings after Woods Pond Beach was closed when nearly 100 people got sick earlier in July and found they were infected with the norovirus. 

Authorities closed the beach on July 6th after receiving reports that people had become ill after swimming in the pond. Officials tested the water for E. coli, and found that it was within acceptable limits, but discovered a higher concentration in the water coming from two bathroom sinks. The beach was reopened on July 10th and the city started work to replace the sinks.

Norovirus is highly contagious and with symptoms that include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and cramps. Officials warned parents that if their kids are sick, they should stay home. 

“It’s highly contagious, so it would appear that there’s a human element there, that somebody had it and was at the beach,” Bridgton Town Manager Bob Peabody told the Portland Press Herald. “I think the message is, if you’re sick or your children are sick, don’t go to the beach.”

Photo: Getty Images


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