An investigation has revealed that at least 80 Boston College students who ate at a nearby Chipotle restaurant have been sickened by norovirus, the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) said on Wednesday, indicating that the outbreak is connected to a spate of E. coli infections in most states.

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According to Reuters, people who have been in close proximity with infected have become ill. Boston College has reportedly received several reports of roommates of infected students, who contracted the infection, said by the commission.

"Health officials in Boston believe this is likely a norovirus, which seems consistent with the pattern, in our estimation," Chipotle spokesman Chris Arnold told NBC News.

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus. It can be easily passed among those in close proximity and can spread through improper hygiene, contaminated food, and contact with contaminated surfaces.The symptoms of the virus includes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps and fever. The incubation period of this virus can last between two and eight days.

According to Nbc News, City health officials have ordered the outlet of Chipotle to be closed. After an inspection, it was discovered that a cooked chicken used to make burritos, tacos and other dishes was kept at a temperature that was too low. Also, an employee worked while showing signs of illness. The report shows that the employee is the possible source of the food borne illness.

The Chipotle outlet said they will carry out full norovirus sanitization in their restaurant, and employees of the outlet can not return to work until they have been tested and cleared with norovirus. The E. coli outbreak in Chipotle last month was the company's third food safety incident since August.

Now, concerns are being raised about potential reputational damage to the fast-growing brand that has won a loyal following for its food made with fresh products, meats raised without antibiotics and ingredients that are free of genetically modified organisms.

TagsBoston College, Health news, Infection, Virus, contaminated chipotle food, chipotle customers, improper hygiene, contimanated food, norovirus, Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc, Chipotle E. Coli Outbreak, Chipotle Norovirus