An outbreak of the norovirus caused a shutdown of the dining room at Brookdale Senior Living facility in Ocean Shores last week, and a sign went up at the entrance advising visitors of the health concern.

“Attention. We have norvirus in our facility at this time. If you are sick or have been sick withing the last 48 hours, please consider coming back to visit at another time,” the sign said.

Residents were asked to stay in the room as staff moved to sanitize the facility.

Heather Hunter, senior public relations specialist for Brookdale, said several residents and associates “have recently reported stomach flu-like symptoms. When such symptoms occur, it is our practice to take proactive measures to prevent the possible spread of such ailments. Out of an abundance of caution, we closed the dining room and have been delivering meals directly to resident apartments. Activities and transportation have been limited as well to minimize the potential for spreading.”

“As always, we are taking all necessary precautions for the safety and well-being of our residents and associates,” Hunter said.

Outbreaks of the norovirus have been reported across the nation. According to the Centers for Disease Control, norovirus causes inflammation of the stomach or intestines or both.

The most common symptoms are diarrhea, throwing up, nausea, stomach pain, fever, headache, and body aches.

A person usually develops symptoms 12 to 48 hours after being exposed to norovirus.

If you have norovirus illness, you can feel extremely ill and throw up or have diarrhea many times a day. This can lead to dehydration, especially in young children, older adults, and people with other illnesses.