Norovirus Outbreak Triggers Sudden Temporary Shutdown of Popular Raynham Eatery

RAYNHAM — A Raynham restaurant will be closed for the next few days after a reported outbreak of norovirus within the restaurant.

2 Jerks Kitchen & Bar posted on its Facebook page just before 6 p.m. on May 27 that it would be closed for the next 72 hours to deal with a norovirus outbreak at the popular barbecue restaurant.

“It has come to our attention that there has been a norovirus outbreak within our establishment,” the restaurant posted. “The proper state and local authorities have been notified of the situation and due to the severity of the situation, we will be closed to take the proper steps to ensure the health and safety of our staff and customers.”

2 Jerks Kitchen Announces 72-Hour Shutdown

“The health and safety of our community will always take first priority. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and sincerely appreciate your patience as we navigate this issue,” the post read. “We will be closed for the next 72 hours per the request of the Town to ensure the virus is no longer prevalent and the proper steps are taken. We will reopen on Saturday.”

READ MORE: Explosion at Raynham Lithium Battery Plant Blows Out Doors

WBSM has reached out to the Raynham Health Department and will update this story with any further information provided.

What Is Norovirus?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, norovirus is the “leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the United States.”

How Norovirus Spreads and Contaminates Food

It is highly contagious and can spread “very easily and quickly in different ways,” the CDC said.

“You can get norovirus by accidentally getting tiny particles of feces (poop) or vomit in your mouth from a person infected with norovirus,” the CDC said. “If you get norovirus illness, you can shed billions of norovirus particles that you can’t see without a microscope. It only takes a few norovirus particles to make you and other people sick.”

It can spread through contaminated food, water, or surfaces, especially if a person with norovirus does not wash their hands or surfaces are not properly sanitized. The CDC website has a full list of ways norovirus can spread.

What Are the Symptoms of Norovirus?

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Diarrhea, stomach pain and vomiting typically begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure. Norovirus infection symptoms usually last 1 to 3 days.”

Usually, people with norovirus just think they have “food poisoning” or a stomach flu and do not see a need to seek medical treatment.

Get our free mobile app

When to Seek Medical Attention for Norovirus

“Most people recover completely without treatment. However, for some people – especially young children, older adults and people with other medical conditions – vomiting and diarrhea can be severely dehydrating and require medical attention.”

You are most contagious when you are experiencing symptoms, especially vomiting, as well as for the first few days after you begin to feel better.

“However, studies have shown that you can still spread norovirus for two weeks or more after you feel better,” the CDC said.