Noro virus infection surging
By Yoon Ja-youngCases of noro virus infections, also known as food poisoning or stomach flu, are sharply increasing.According to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC), cases of noro virus detection in waterborne diseases or diseases transmitted through food surged by 88.5 percent in 2012 from the previous year. Between the 47th and 49th weeks of 2012, the virus was detected in over 50 percent of patients with diarrhea, according to the KCDC.Noro virus, which is transmitted through the stool or vomit of infected persons, or contaminated water or food, causes diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, fever, and head and body ache.However, there is no vaccine for noro virus yet though one is being developed, according to the centers. Moreover, as the immune response to a particular type is only for around 14 weeks, people can be infected again and again.As the noro virus is expected to be prevalent until March, the centers recommended individuals take care with their hygiene.The following are tips from the KCDC for preventing noro virus infection.— Take care
Jan 18, 2013By Yoon Ja-young