Taiwan’s diarrhea cases surge, norovirus blamed

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported Tuesday (April 30) that the number of reported diarrhea cases in the past four weeks has nearly tripled compared to the same period last year. The CDC recorded 189 cases, a significant increase from the 67 cases reported in 2023.

The majority of these cases were concentrated in the food and hospitality industries. Of the 189 cases, 103 tested positive for pathogens, with 91 (88%) being identified as Norovirus.

The CDC noted a 9% decrease in emergency room visits for diarrhea last week (April 21-27), with 112,108 visits compared to 123,309 the previous week. This marks a downward trend over the past two weeks and is lower than the same period last year.

The CDC explained that Norovirus is highly contagious, requiring only a tiny amount of the virus to spread. It is often transmitted through fecal-oral routes, including poor hygiene, close contact with an infected person, or consuming food contaminated by the vomit or feces of an infected person, making it prone to cluster infections.

The CDC urged the public to wash their hands properly with soap or hand wash before preparing meals and eating, after using the toilet and caring for the sick. The center also advised choosing fresh ingredients for cooking, maintaining food hygiene and storage, and avoiding undercooked eggs, meat, or raw shellfish. It is also recommended that raw and cooked food be separated. Those with suspected symptoms, especially food industry workers, should rest at home to avoid spreading the infection.

If symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or fever occur, the CDC advises ample rest and replenishment of fluids, electrolytes, and nutrition. The center suggested resuming school or work at least 48 hours after symptoms have subsided.

To reduce the risk of transmission, contaminated clothing and bed sheets should be changed immediately. If surfaces such as toilets or door handles are contaminated, they should be wiped with a solution of 20 cubic centimeters of bleach and 1 liter of water. Gloves and masks should be worn when handling the vomit or feces of an infected person, and a solution of 100 cubic centimeters of bleach and 1 liter of water should be used for disinfection.

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