NBA Teams Sickened by Contagious Norovirus

EMSL Analytical, Inc. provides environmental testing services to prevent contagious viruses from causing outbreaks in arenas, schools and other public settings.

Cinnaminson, NJ

Last week it was reported that an outbreak of a stomach virus that impacted 13 NBA teams was caused by the norovirus. Within the 13 teams, 21 players became ill, including some well known stars.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Noroviruses (genus Norovirus, family Caliciviridae) are a group of related, single-stranded RNA, non-enveloped viruses that cause acute gastroenteritis in humans. The most common symptoms of acute gastroenteritis are diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Norovirus is the official genus name for the group of viruses previously described as “Norwalk-like viruses” (NLV). Noroviruses spread from person to person, through contaminated food or water, and by touching contaminated surfaces. Norovirus is recognized as the leading cause of foodborne-disease outbreaks in the United States. Outbreaks can happen to people of all ages and in a variety of settings.” The virus is also capable of being transmitted by air if dried vomit particles becoming airborne.

The virus has made headlines over the last several years due to highly publicized outbreaks on major cruise lines. The CDC reports, “Norovirus illness often begins suddenly and, when infected, you may feel very sick, with stomach cramping, vomiting, or diarrhea. Infections are usually not serious, and most people recover within 1 or 2 days with no long-term health effects. But, more severe illness is possible, particularly in young children, the elderly, and people with other health conditions, and can lead to hospitalization and even death.”

EMSL Analytical, one of the nation’s largest environmental testing laboratories, has PCR testing capabilities for viruses such as norovirus and enterovirus. “Noroviruses are highly contagious and as few as 10 viral particles may be sufficient to infect an individual according to some research,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL. “To prevent outbreaks it’s important to test for these viruses and when suspected outbreaks do occur testing will help identify the culprit,” he continued.

To learn more about environmental virus testing please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical, Inc. is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of food, environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joe Frasca

Senior Vice President, Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

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