Suspected Norovirus outbreak linked to MLB GM meetings in Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale, Arizona, United States

Major League Baseball (MLB) terminated its annual General Manager (GM) meetings due to a suspected Norovirus outbreak at the Omni Montelucia Resort, Scottsdale, Arizona, that affected over 10% of the executives present.

The interruptions in the meetings commenced on Wednesday as a result of reported illnesses that initially seemed like food poisoning from Tuesday's buffet. However, the cause has now been traced to the highly infectious Norovirus, realizing that several affected individuals had not consumed the suspect meal. The Norovirus, notorious for being primarily spread via direct contact, can also spread through contaminated food, surfaces, and water.

The outbreak was discovered when illnesses were reported on the opening night and more cases emerged on Wednesday afternoon. This situation prompted the league to discontinue the meetings scheduled to end on Thursday morning. Nearly every team had reported at least one illness, with notable afflictions from members of New York Yankees GM Brian Cashman’s staff and at least eight individuals from the league office.

The general managers meetings often act as the unofficial start to the off-season in baseball, which makes its premature conclusion impactful to consequent events. This outbreak has inevitably enforced modifications to the subsequent agents meetings, which will now be held over Zoom.

Norovirus is very contagious and is easily transmitted from person to person most through the oral/fecal route. Considering that hand sanitizer does NOT work against this virus, it is important to wash your hands with soap frequently. Use bleach to clean and disinfect surfaces.

In case you experience Norovirus symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea, report it now. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care

Source: www.bostonherald.com/2023/11/09/mlb-red-sox-gm-meetings-norovirus/