2023-11-11 13:57:05
Outbreak of Acute Diarrhea Caused by Norovirus in Schools Prompts Warning from Department of Disease Control
The Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, has issued a warning to the public to be cautious about sharing food and water following an outbreak of acute diarrhea caused by norovirus in schools. The outbreak has prompted the department to remind people to adhere to the principles of “Eat cooked-hot-clean” to prevent illness from food and water-borne diseases.
Dr. Thongchai Keeratihatthayakorn, Acting Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, stated that with schools now open for the semester, students are gathering in groups to do activities and sharing food and water. If food and water are contaminated with pathogens, especially during the humid and cool weather, it can cause illness with acute diarrhea.
The Epidemiology Division of the Department of Disease Control reported that from January 1st to October 31st, 2023, there were 610,362 cases of acute diarrhea nationwide, with one death. The outbreak news monitoring program also notified an outbreak of acute diarrhea in clusters in a school from norovirus, with 103 patients, including 88 students and 15 staff. Symptoms included vomiting, fever, and diarrhea.
Dr. Sophon Iamsirithaworn, Deputy Director General of the Department of Disease Control, advised that when sick with acute diarrhea, initial treatment should include drinking oral rehydration solution (ORS) to prevent dehydration that can result in shock and death. If symptoms do not improve or if there are severe symptoms, individuals should seek immediate medical attention.
In light of these developments, Dr. Sophon emphasized the importance of adhering to the principles of “Eat cooked-hot-clean”: consuming freshly cooked food, thoroughly heating stored food, and maintaining strict hygiene practices.
The Department of Disease Control has urged the public to take precautions and follow these guidelines to prevent the spread of norovirus and other food- and water-borne diseases. For more information, individuals can contact the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422.
This information was provided by the Epidemiology Division, General Communicable Disease Division, and Risk Communication Bureau of the Department of Disease Control on November 10, 2023.]
#Home #Department #Disease #Control