Comcast Arena Everett Illness Update: Nearly 200 Reports So Far…

On Tuesday we reported both Washington State and Snohomish County Health Officials were investigating reports of people coming down with vomiting, diarrhea and nausea following the State Cheerleading competition held at Comcast Arena Everett on February 4th. This afternoon we’ve received an update from the Washington State Department of Health showing at least 192 illnesses have been reported and 30 attendees have reported seeking medical treatment. Here’s the full release…

Cheer/dance event outbreak update: nearly 200 illnesses reported so far

OLYMPIA — Preliminary survey results show at least 192 reported illnesses around Washington during or after the state high school cheerleading tournament in Everett, February 4. The cause and specific disease are still under investigation.
Symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea, and while most people have recovered, 30 attendees have reported seeking medical treatment.
The Washington State Department of Health is leading the disease investigation, working with local health partners and the event sponsor, the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA).

As part of the investigation, questionnaires were sent to participants and their families and stool samples are being collected for testing at the state Public Health Laboratories. People who attended the event and have severe symptoms are advised to contact a health care provider.

According the WIAA, more than 3,000 people attended the event and more than 1,000 competed in the State Cheerleading and Salute to Spirit in cheer and dance/drill.
Intestinal illnesses can be caused by several viruses and bacteria that may come from a wide variety of sources. Symptoms typically include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and may include headaches, stomach cramps, and fever. As with many illnesses, good personal hygiene including frequent hand washing is an important tool to prevent the spread of disease.

The Snohomish Health District has instructed Comcast Arena Everett officials in the proper ways to sanitize the arena and Suzanne Pate from the SHD says the arena has been fully cooperative.The Health District is asking anyone who became ill after attending or participating in the event to fill out the state survey. If you have questions about symptoms of any communicable disease, call (425) 339-5278.