Norovirus Outbreak Suspected at Great Neck Plaza Assisted Living Facility
Great Neck Plaza, NY – County health care experts are closely monitoring a potential norovirus outbreak at the Atria Park assisted living facility in Great Neck Plaza. The concerns arose after four residents were rushed to the hospital on Sunday night, complaining of severe nausea. Authorities confirm that all four patients are now in stable condition.
Nassau County police, along with volunteers and EMS personnel from the Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department, immediately responded to the facility on Great Neck Road after a resident reported feeling ill around 6:45 p.m. During their presence, several other residents began exhibiting similar symptoms, prompting the hazmat team to conduct tests for potential carbon monoxide poisoning. Fortunately, all tests came back negative.
However, the patients’ conditions did not improve, leading investigators to suspect a foodborne problem or a norovirus outbreak. In response, the Nassau County Department of Health, the State Department of Health, and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s office have all been notified and are actively involved in the investigation.
The Nassau County fire marshal’s office has handed over the case to health inspectors from both Nassau County and the state. Their primary objective is to determine the precise cause of the illness and any potential sources of infection. Thus far, there has been no record of prior incidents at the assisted living facility.
A spokesperson for the Nassau County Department of Health stated that an investigation is underway, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Meanwhile, the Atria Park facility released a statement acknowledging the hospitalizations and their cooperation with health authorities. They are awaiting norovirus test results and have implemented heightened infection control protocols in their memory care neighborhood to ensure the safety of residents and staff.
Norovirus, often referred to as a “stomach bug,” is a highly contagious virus that causes symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is not related to the flu. The CDC emphasizes that anyone can be affected by norovirus if exposed to it.
Atria operates multiple assisted living locations across Long Island and New York City, making the situation a matter of concern for health officials. The investigation into this outbreak continues, and further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
In the meantime, individuals are encouraged to take necessary precautions and seek immediate medical attention if experiencing similar symptoms. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
About the Author
John Valenti, an esteemed reporter at Newsday since 1981, has received national recognition from the Associated Press and Society of the Silurians for his outstanding investigative, enterprise, and breaking news reporting. He has also demonstrated his writing talents through his column and is the author of a highly acclaimed book called “Swee’pea,” which chronicles the life of former New York playground basketball star Lloyd Daniels. Valenti’s expertise has even earned him a role in the Emmy Award-winning ESPN 30-for-30 film “Big Shot.”