County health care experts are investigating a potential norovirus outbreak at an assisted living facility in Great Neck Plaza. Four residents were hospitalized on Sunday night after complaining of nausea, according to authorities.
Responders from the Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department, Nassau County police, and EMS personnel from a Nassau County Fire Marshal’s hazmat team were called to the Atria Park assisted living facility on Great Neck Road when a resident reported feeling ill at approximately 6:45 p.m.
While on the scene, several other residents also complained of similar symptoms. Concerned about carbon monoxide poisoning, the hazmat team conducted tests, which came back negative, according to Nassau Chief Fire Marshal Michael F. Uttaro.
Three residents were transported to North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset and one to St. Francis Hospital in Roslyn, all suffering from gastrointestinal distress, officials said. Uttaro confirmed that the patients were in stable condition, but it was unclear whether they were hospitalized overnight or treated and released.
Authorities notified the Nassau County Department of Health, the State Department of Health, and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s office. Uttaro stated that since carbon monoxide was ruled out, the next consideration was a foodborne issue, possibly caused by norovirus.
The Nassau County fire marshal’s office handed over the investigation to Nassau County health and state health inspectors to determine the cause of the illness and any potential infection. Fire officials were not aware of any prior incidents at the facility.
The Nassau County Department of Health is currently investigating the situation, according to a spokesperson. A statement from Atria Park, the assisted living facility, mentioned that they are awaiting norovirus test results and are working closely with the local Department of Health, as well as the NYSDOH.
Atria operates multiple assisted living locations in Long Island and New York City. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. It is not related to the flu.
The facility assured that their memory care neighborhood will continue to follow strict infection control protocols, including enhanced cleaning, regular screening, and monitoring of residents and staff.
Check back for updates on this developing story.
