Manager says county praised assisted-living facility’s quick action

Norovirus is the bug that has infected residents at the Quail Run assisted-living facility at the Mennonite Village, said Bob Johnson, vice president of operations.

The Mennonite Village received the diagnosis today from the Linn County Health Department, he said.

In addition, Johnson said he had previously understated the number of people infected and it is closer to 25, rather than the 10 reported Thursday.

“The norovirus is easier to communicate between people but the health department said we had taken the correct precautions and done all the right things,” Johnson said.

He added that there has not been a new case at Quail Run in more than 36 hours.

“People do not need to panic. We are still continuing with the same steps as before,” he said.

Staff and residents are using infection control procedures, including washing hands thoroughly and delivering meals to the rooms of those infected. Personal and group contact has been limited.

“The county told us we reacted properly and quickly and did all the right things,” Johnson added.

Johnson said the virus first showed up about a week ago at the facility of about 100 people. He said there remains no prognosis as to when the problem may be over.

Norovirus is a strong, highly contagious gastrointestinal virus that most often occurs in closed or semi-closed communities like care facilities, hospitals and dormitories.