Dozens Sick After Dining at Yoko's Traditional Japanese Restaurant in South Tampa

Illness Outbreak at Yoko's Restaurant

• 💡 Dozens of people reported gastrointestinal illnesses after eating at Yoko's Traditional Japanese Restaurant in South Tampa.
• 📌 One customer described her experience, noting that she and two friends became sick a day after their meal.
• 💬 More than 60 people commented on a private Facebook group about experiencing similar issues after visiting the restaurant.

Health Department Investigation

• 🔍 State investigators visited Yoko's restaurant following calls from customers and the owners.
• ⚠️ The investigators' report did not identify a specific cause for the illnesses.
• 🩺 An employee was noted to have worked while feeling sick on March 30th and was later sent home, though its impact is unclear.

Potential Causes and Prevention

• 🦠 A family physician suggests potential causes include bacteria or viruses like Norovirus, which can spread through food and surfaces.
• 🗣️ The physician noted that Norovirus can be shed for up to two weeks after symptoms resolve.
• 🧼 Traditional cleaning methods may not be sufficient to eliminate Norovirus; bleach is recommended for effective removal.

Restaurant Response

• 🧼 Yoko's restaurant owner stated they temporarily closed the establishment for a deep clean and disinfection.
• 😔 The owner expressed concern for the ill customers and distress over the belief that the restaurant might be the source of the sickness.