Norovirus is back stronger than before

By Kim Hyun-bin

One of winter's least-welcome guests, norovirus season is back stronger than before. In recent months, there has been a 71 percent increase in infections compared to the same period last year. Health officials are urging the public to maintain good hygiene and wash their hands constantly for over 30 seconds to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Norovirus, sometimes referred to as the winter vomiting bug, is the most common cause of gastroenteritis. Symptoms are diarrhea, vomiting and stomach pain.

According to a report by the Korea Centers for Disease and Prevention (KCDC) there were 86 norovirus cases reported between Nov. 4 to 10, and in the first week of December the number rose drastically to 147 cases.

Most patients are diagnosed with norovirus during the winter to early spring.

Over the last five years, an average of 1,100 people have been diagnosed with the disease, most during the winter. On average, 128 people in November, 218 in December, 115 in January and 29 in February.

“The norovirus can survive subzero temperatures for a long period of time so cases are prevalent during the winter. Their strong survivability is enough to withstand soap and alcohol,” said Kim Min-ja, professor of internal medicine at Korea University Anam Hospital.

No antiviral drug can treat noroviruses, but in healthy people, the illness should go away on its own within a couple of days. Most people do not suffer long-term effects from the virus.

Doctors advise people to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids, especially water and juice. For children an oral rehydration solution (such as Pedialyte) to replace lost fluids and electrolytes is an option. However, people should avoid sugary drinks, which can make diarrhea worse, as well as alcohol and caffeinated beverages.

Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness when standing and dry mouth. Children who are dehydrated may be unusually sleepy or fussy.

How to prevent norovirus infection

Good hygiene is the key to preventing norovirus infection, especially when you are in close proximity to a lot of other people.

Doctors say to wash hands often with soap and water for at least 30 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, and before preparing or eating food. Alcohol-based cleansers are not as effective as soap and water.

They also advise washing raw fruit and vegetables thoroughly and cooking oysters and other shellfish before consumption.

Once a person becomes infected, clean and disinfect surfaces with a mixture of detergent and chlorine bleach and don't prepare food for at least two to three days after recovery.

“Norovirus is commonly transferred through the hand so people should avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth,” Kim said. “The easiest way to prevent the virus is to wash one's hands thoroughly.”