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AAP
AAP
Health
Tara Cosoleto

Common virus likely cause of venue's gastro outbreak

Officials say the norovirus most likely caused a gastro outbreak among guests at a Victorian venue. (Diego Fedele/AAP PHOTOS)

A mass gastro outbreak linked to a Melbourne function venue was likely caused by a common virus.

Victoria's health department had been notified of the gastroenteritis outbreak at The Park Melbourne on September 13 and 16 across separate events.

At least 70 people from each event reported being unwell.

The department on Friday confirmed the outbreak was likely caused by norovirus, a common form of gastro, but investigations will continue.

Norovirus is highly contagious and transmitted primarily through contact with an infected person, contaminated surfaces or contaminated food or water.

Symptoms include acute onset vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea, muscle pains and low-grade fever.

The Albert Park venue hosted a wedding party on September 13 and then a conference of medical professionals on September 16. 

The Park venue manager Bahaa Harb said no issues with health and safety practices were found during a "routine" inspection on September 15. 

"We have conducted a precautionary deep clean and have received approval from council to continue trading," Mr Harb said in a statement.

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