Seventeen Juanita High School cheer team members and one coach are out sick this week, after a reported possible intestinal illness outbreak among attendees of a cheerleading competition in Everett over the weekend.

State and local health officials are investigating the possible outbreak.

According to Kathryn Reith, Lake Washington School District spokesperson, Juanita High School has been providing information to the state Department of Health.

Thousands of people attended the event at Everett’s Comcast Arena on Feb. 4; onset of symptoms reportedly began on Feb. 5 and 6. Symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea.

The Washington State Department of Health is working closely with the Snohomish Health District on the investigation. The cause and source of the illnesses, as well as the total number of people sickened, are unknown. Teams and supporters from around the state participated.

The investigation is in the early stages and includes sending a questionnaire to participants as well as collecting samples for testing at the state Public Health Laboratories. People who attended the event and have severe symptoms are advised to contact a health care provider.

According the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA), which hosted the event, more than 3,000 people attended, and more than 1,000 competed in the State Cheerleading and Salute to Spirit in cheer and dance/drill.

“Our immediate concerns are for those who have been affected by this illness and our thoughts are with them,” said WIAA Executive Director Mike Colbrese. “The WIAA appreciates the cooperation of Comcast Arena and of state and local health partners for addressing the entire scope of this situation.”

Intestinal illnesses can be caused by several viruseºs and bacteria that may come from a wide variety of sources. Symptoms typically include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and may include headaches, stomach cramps, and fever.

 

Contact Kirkland Reporter Editor Carrie Wood at editor@kirklandreporter.com or 425.822.9166 ext 5050.

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