EVERETT, Wash. -- Snohomish County Health District officials ruled out drinking water as the source of a norovirus outbreak following the state cheerleading championships in Everett this month.
Through their investigation, officials learned vomit on the floor of a restroom at Comcast Arena and the adjacent concourse walkway are the likely sources of exposure to the illness.
Two-hundred twenty nine people statewide have since reported being sick with norovirus following the competition February 4 and 5. Members of the Ballard High School cheerleading squad said half of their students came down with the illness.
Health District officials said it is likely athletes arrived at the event already sick.
The City of Everett tested the drinking water supply, which proved to be safe.
The Washington State Department of Health plans to poll about 2,000 people who attended the event in an online survey to determine their symptoms, if any, and other information. Further lab tests will be done to determine the bacteria's point of origin.
Comcast Arena has been thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to prevent any further spread.
