The BC-Chipotle epidemic had the tiniest chance of happening
Only 1.3 percent of norovirus outbreaks have affected more than 140 people
Today the university confirmed 141 BC students have been reported to Health Services with norovirus symptoms after eating Cleveland Circle Chipotle.
In a new report, the Boston Public Health Commission confirmed 91 cases of norovirus from those who ate at Chipotle.
While this included Boston College students, there were also non-BC customers who were infected. After contact with these individuals, others fell ill.
Health experts say an outbreak this size is incredibly unlikely. CDC records from 2009-’14 show fewer than three percent of food-related norovirus outbreaks ever affect more than 80 people.
Over half the outbreaks have affected 11 people or fewer and only 1.3 percent of outbreaks struck over 140.
This makes BC a serious medical anomaly with 141 people ill after eating at Chipotle.