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Norovirus Infections on the Rise This Winter

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The number of norovirus infection patients is increasing as winter progresses.Recent reports from daycare centers and kindergartens have prompted the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety to urge infants and workers to practice diligent personal hygiene and thoroughly disinfect their living environments.

Norovirus is most common from winter to spring, wiht approximately 53% of the 234 reported cases over the past five years (2020-2024) occurring between December and February.

The virus causes acute gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Its increased activity in colder temperatures makes it a critically important contributor to winter food poisoning outbreaks.

Norovirus is primarily spread through contaminated food. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety identifies seafood, especially shellfish and oysters, as a common source of norovirus outbreaks during the winter months. It’s important to note that norovirus is a viral food poisoning,distinct from food poisoning caused by bacteria,viruses,or toxins. While norovirus is prevalent in winter, bacterial food poisoning risks are higher in the summer.

What are the early symptoms and prevention tips?

Norovirus is characterized by a sudden onset. Symptoms like vomiting and nausea begin abruptly for no