Updated: More Than 60 People Sickened in Retirement Home Virus Outbreak

More than 60 people have been sickened in a Norovirus outbreak at the North Shore Hotel retirement home, according to the Evanston Health Department.

The outbreak began on March 19, but Margaret Gergen, general manager of the North Shore Hotel, said they first learned of the outbreak on March 21. About 5 people are still experiencing symptoms, she said, though they are expected to recover in about a day.

The virus can spread quickly from person to person, particularly in crowded places like dorms and retirement communities.

The Evanston Health Department said that the infections are not typically serious and most people recover within a few days. However, they said, "more severe illness is possible, particularly in young children, the elderly, and people with other health conditions and can lead to hospitalization and even death."

Gergen said none of the cases reported have been serious. She said the facility requested people experiencing symptoms to remain in their apartments for about 24 hours after their last symptoms and they have brought special crews in to clean commonly used areas and surfaces.