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Over 90 Infected By Norovirus Breakout At Metro Vancouver Browns Socialhouse

Browns Socialhouse

Photo: Browns Socialhouse Newport Village / Facebook

It may be one of the nicer chain restaurants in Metro Vancouver, but Browns Socialhouse in Port Moody experienced a major health scare over the long weekend.

On Wednesday, May 16th, the Newport Village establishment closed after customers and staff complained of flulike symptoms. As a result, the company decided to close for the entirety of the weekend. Their Facebook account notes that they were working  in conjuncted with Fraser Health to determine the cause of the outbreak.

The restaurant did close in response to the breakout; however, over 90 people were already infected by the time that they did. And, people may end up in hospital as a result of dehydration from the loss of bodily fluids.

Symptoms of norovirus include upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, chills and fever; it can be spread if an infected person doesn’t wash their hands or if they handle food, water or ice.

RELATED: Vancouver Is Completely Banning Plastic Straws And Foam Cups

Browns Socialhouse Newport Village

Facebook user Emily Arsenault posted about the experience her loved ones faced as a result of the breakout.

This is absolutely disgusting. I visited browns last Sunday (the day the virus broke out) and although I wasn’t effected, my loved ones were. Let me be the first to tell you that the symptoms were HORRIBLE and lasted up to a full 5 days. This virus breaks out when someone (most likely an employee) comes into contact with the food or utensils after they have decided NOT to wash their hands after visiting the bathroom. So unsanitary it’s disgusting to even think about. It’s safe to say I won’t be eating back at Browns Socialhouse Newport Village for a very long time… and not to mention bleaching my house was just the cherry on top.

The restaurant stated it would re-open as of Tuesday, May 22nd.

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