A nursing home reports that a roommate of a food worker was diagnosed with Norovirus over the weekend. What must the manager do?

• A. Quarantine the worker
• B. Notify the regulatory authority
• C. Disinfect the kitchen
• D. Post a notice to customers

Answer: (B)

Norovirus is highly contagious and can spread quickly in facilities like nursing homes. When there’s a confirmed case or potential exposure related to someone connected to the operation—such as a roommate of a food handler—the health authorities need to be informed so they can assess risk and guide the next steps. Notifying the regulatory authority ensures proper investigation, enforcement of exclusion or return-to-work rules, and appropriate cleaning procedures.

Quarantining the worker isn’t automatically required just because a roommate is sick; health authorities would provide direction if needed. Disinfecting the kitchen is important and should be done under guidance, but the first and essential action is to report to the regulatory authority. Posting notices to customers isn’t a standard requirement and could cause unnecessary alarm.