Public Health Seattle King County (PHSKC) investigated an outbreak of gastrointestinal illnesses associated with Zobel Ethiopian Cuisine in Seattle. Symptoms and timing of illness onsets were suggestive of a bacterial toxin such as Clostridium perfringens or Bacillus cereus. The exact food ingredient or drink that caused the illnesses was not identified. This is not uncommon for outbreaks associated with a bacterial toxin.

Two people from 2 separate households reported becoming sick on March 4, 2024. No one was hospitalized and no one died.

PHSKC Environmental Health investigators visited Zobel Ethiopian Cuisine restaurant on March 11, 2024. Investigators identified potential risk factors for bacterial toxin growth including improper cooling of food and inadequate refrigeration. Corrective actions were implemented at the time of the visit, and investigators provided education on proper cooling procedures for cooked foods.