At a press conference on October 22, the National Health Commission discussed issues surrounding “Seasonal Changes and Health.” During the event, a journalist raised a question about the rise in infectious diseases during the autumn and winter, specifically noting the increasing reports of norovirus infections at this time of year. They inquired about which groups should be particularly vigilant and what preventive measures can be taken.
In response, Zhang Daitao, a researcher at the Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention, explained that norovirus infection is a self-limiting illness. After contracting the virus, symptoms typically include diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and nausea. Generally, for the average person, the illness is mild and tends to improve within 2 to 3 days. However, vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children may experience more severe symptoms.
Zhang pointed out that norovirus primarily spreads through the consumption of contaminated food or water. To prevent infection in personal and family settings, he recommended several key practices:
1. Maintain good hand hygiene. It’s important to wash hands properly with soap and running water before meals, after using the bathroom, and before preparing food.
2. Pay close attention to personal food hygiene. Drink boiled water and eat cooked foods. Ensure that vegetables and fruits are thoroughly washed, and avoid consuming raw or undercooked foods, especially shellfish and other seafood which should be fully cooked.
3. If someone falls ill, the patient should rest at home until they have fully recovered, ideally for at least 3 days after symptoms disappear. During this time, it’s best to minimize close contact with other family members, particularly with the elderly and young children.
4. Keep the home environment clean and well-disinfected. Regularly open windows for ventilation. If a family member experiences vomiting or diarrhea, it’s crucial to use an effective chlorine-based disinfectant to properly sanitize the affected areas.
5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by adhering to a regular sleeping schedule, balanced diet, and engaging in moderate exercise, which can help boost the body’s resistance to viruses.
Zhang further emphasized that in crowded places like schools and daycare centers, it’s essential to carry out regular disinfection and ventilation of the premises, as well as to monitor the health of all attendees. Ensuring that infected individuals do not come to work is also a critical step in preventing further spread.
