Norovirus Accounts for 57% of Food Poisoning Pathogens in Incheon... Caution Needed in Winter

The Incheon Metropolitan City Institute of Health and Environment urged residents to maintain personal hygiene and follow preventive measures to prevent food poisoning caused by norovirus infections during the winter.

According to the institute on November 13, norovirus accounted for the largest share of pathogens detected in suspected food poisoning cases in the Incheon area from January to September this year, with 178 of the 311 cases (57.2%).

Norovirus is a major cause of food poisoning in winter. Because it can survive even at low temperatures, infections tend to increase each year from November through the following spring. Even a small amount of the virus can cause infection, and it spreads easily, so extra caution is needed in group settings such as childcare centers and schools.

The main routes of infection include consuming contaminated food or water, contact with an infected person, and contact with environments contaminated by vomit or feces. After an incubation period of 12 to 48 hours, infected people may develop symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Norovirus food poisoning prevention guidelines. Provided by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

To prevent norovirus food poisoning, people should follow basic preventive measures: wash their hands with soap under running water for at least 30 seconds; thoroughly cook shellfish, including oysters, at a core temperature of at least 85°C for at least 1 minute; boil water before drinking it; and thoroughly clean and disinfect cooking utensils and surrounding areas.

In particular, anyone with suspected symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea should avoid preparing food and should not take part in food preparation for at least 48 hours after their symptoms have subsided.

A representative of the Incheon Metropolitan City Institute of Health and Environment said, "We will do our utmost to prevent the spread of food poisoning and help prevent cases through surveys of food poisoning risk factors and investigations to trace sources of infection."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.