Protecting families from contaminated food and water
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Protecting families from contaminated food and water
Posted in Norovirus,Our Blog,Outbreaks & Recalls on February 7, 2026
Wayland Police and Fire Departments were called to The Residence at Paine Estate earlier this week following reports of serious illness at the assisted living facility. Patients were experiencing symptoms consistent with norovirus, said a Wayland City press release.
Norovirus can be a minor inconvenience for normally healthy individuals. In the elderly, it can be deadly. What is norovirus and how do you know if you have it? Why is norovirus particularly serious for those over 65? What should you do if you begin experiencing symptoms?
But first, here’s what we know about the situation at The Residence at Paine Estate so far!
According to a Wayland Town press release, as early as 8:38 a.m. on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, the Wayland Police and Fire Department began receiving calls for illnesses requiring medical attention at an “assisted living facility” on 10 Green Way. Reports indicate the initial response was believed to be due to a “flu outbreak.”
At least five people were transported to a local hospital that morning. Another patient was transported to a local hospital later that evening.
Three facilities are listed at that address.
Miriam Boyde Hospice Residence, listed as a “Health Consultant.” Parmenter Community Health Care, listed as an “Adult Day Care Center.” And an “Assisted Living Facility” called The Residence at Paine Estate.
While there isn’t yet a connection to other facilities, the press release says that in addition to engaging with Wayland’s Public Health Nurse and the facility’s Assistant Executive Director, “other assisted living facilities within Wayland have been notified of the situation.”
In anticipation of additional medical transportation needs, mutual aid partners have been contacted, the Fire Department has adjusted staffing, and the Police department is taking additional precautions when responding to the situation to “ensure the safety of the crews.”
So far, the mutual aid response includes Sudbury Fire Department and Brewster Ambulance.
According to Wayland Town, “this is an ongoing situation” and “no further information is available at this time.”
Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this bad bug is responsible for 58% of the foodborne infections acquired in the country each year. Additionally, this virus is responsible for around 900 deaths each year.
Mostly adults 65 years of age or older.
While it is often referred to as a “stomach flu,” it is not related to the influenza virus at all.
Oftentimes, norovirus is spread through “food poisoning.” Either through food that is contaminated, uncooked, or undercooked.”
It doesn’t take much to get sick with norovirus. It is highly contagious!
Health experts say you can become infected with as few as 10 viral particals.
The virus is spread to others by people who are already infected. This can be done by sharing food or eating utensils. But most commonly by eating after touching contaminated surfaces or consuming food touched by someone who is already infected and didn’t wash their hands.
And now for the thing that nobody wants to think about.
Unlike the actual flu or other respiratory viruses, norovirus is spread through the feces of an infected person.
Remember how I said it only takes a few viral particles to get sick? This means even trace amounts that you cannot see, smell, and either fortunately or unfortunately, taste can get you sick.
Norovirus is spread through what is called fecal-oral route.
Now that you know what norovirus is. How do you know if you have it?
Only specialized laboratory tests performed on fecal samples can accurately diagnose norovirus. However, a probable diagnosis may be given if you have the same symptoms and similar food experiences to someone who has already been diagnosed.
Most people begin feeling symptoms within 12 to 48 hours of exposure with normally healthy people recovering within one to three days. You are most contagious and likely to transmit your illness to others while you are feeling sick through the first few days of feeling better.
Common symptoms of norovirus infection include:
Vomiting and diarrhea multiple times a day can lead to dehydration – a dangerous complication.
Especially in young children, older adults, and those with other existing illnesses.
Dehydration symptoms may include:
Contact your healthcare provider if you or someone you are caring for becomes severely dehydrated.
What makes this norovirus situation at The Residence at Paine Estate so serious is the expected age of most residents at the assisted living facility.
Norovirus in those over the age of 65 can be dangerous. Existing and compounding health conditions can exacerbate symptoms. Leading to complications, prolonged illness, or even death.
Unfortunately, assisted living facilities are at increased risk for this highly contagious virus. Which is why Wayland Town is keeping a close eye on the situation.
If you or a loved one has visited, stayed, or worked at The Residence at Paine Estate and become sick with norovirus, you may be part of this outbreak. Get medical help right away and be sure you are tested for this harmful bacterial infection.
It is a good idea to reach out to an experienced norovirus lawyer as soon as you feel well enough to. A norovirus lawyer can help you navigate this difficult process.
If you or a loved one has been seriously impacted by your norovirus illness, you may have a legal case.
The Lange Law Firm, PLLC has recovered millions of dollars in food contamination and product liability suits to help cover medical expenses, missed work, and other burdens associated with foodborne illness.
Get legal advice today.
Call (833) 330-3663 or submit your information on the online submission form for a free, no obligation consultation to go over the details of your situation.
By: Heather Van Tassell (contributing writer, non-lawyer)