KAOHSIUNG (TVBS News) — With acute diarrhea cases on the rise in Kaohsiung City, hitting an emergency room visit rate of 4.81% during the 48th week of the year (Nov. 26 to Dec. 2), local health officials are raising alarms over the spread of Norovirus, particularly in schools.
Data from the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) indicate that the current rate marks a significant increase from the 2.91% reported in the same period last year.
The autumn and winter months are noted for heightened Norovirus activity, and this year, the city has already reported 125 cluster cases of diarrhea, with schools accounting for a staggering 80% of the infection sites.
In an urgent appeal to the public, the Kaohsiung City Department of Health has emphasized the importance of regular handwashing with soap and vigilance in food safety practices.
Norovirus is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route. It can spread through poor hygiene, close contact with infected individuals, and the consumption of food contaminated by the virus, including through inhaling droplets bearing the virus.
With the uptick in school activities such as field trips, school anniversaries, and graduation trips, officials caution that there is an increased risk of cross-infection.
Importantly, standard alcohol-based hand sanitizers are ineffective against Norovirus. The health department is recommending diligent handwashing with soap, as well as the use of diluted bleach for disinfecting surfaces to minimize viral spread.
Precautionary measures extend to thoroughly washing and cooking seafood, appropriately disinfecting areas after vomiting or diarrhea incidents with diluted bleach, and using gloves and masks.
Health officials advise staying home when sick and returning to work or school only 48 hours after symptoms have disappeared.
