Outbreak of gastrointestinal illness associated with Coho Cafe

6130 East Lake Sammamish Parkway Southeast, Issaquah, 98029 Washington, United States

Public Health officials have completed an investigation into a gastrointestinal illness outbreak linked to Coho Cafe at 6130 E Lake Sammamish Pkwy SE A, Issaquah, WA 98029. Six people reported falling ill after consuming food at the restaurant between March 11 and April 5, 2024. No hospitalizations or deaths were reported. No sick staff members were identified at the restaurant.

The investigation did not identify any specific food or drink item as the cause of the illnesses. Norovirus was suspected, but without laboratory testing, other causes could not be ruled out.

In response to the initial reports, Environmental Health Investigators visited the restaurant on March 27, 2024. They directed the management to conduct a thorough cleaning and disinfection. They also reviewed the restaurant's policy for allowing staff to return to work after a gastrointestinal illness, requiring a wait of at least 24 hours after symptoms stop, or 48 hours in the case of suspected norovirus.

During the visit, investigators observed an employee putting on gloves before washing their hands, a potential risk factor for spreading illness. The employee was instructed to wash their hands and the staff was educated on proper hand washing and norovirus prevention measures.

A follow-up visit on April 10, 2024, found the restaurant had implemented appropriate cleaning and disinfection measures and correct handwashing practices. After receiving another report of illness, investigators visited the restaurant again on April 24, 2024. All staff were interviewed about symptoms and required to confirm they were not sick before starting their next shift. A second round of deep cleaning and disinfection was conducted and the staff illness policy was updated to meet food code requirements.

Despite the outbreak, the current inspection rating for Coho Cafe is "Good". The outbreak appears to be over, according to the Public Health report.

If you or a loved one are harmed or experiencing any symptoms, it is important to report it. Reporting can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.

Source: kingcounty.gov/en/dept/dph/health-safety/disease-illness/foodborne-illness-outbreaks/2024-march-11-coho-cafe