Winter Food Poisoning and Norovirus: Prevention and Coping Strategies.

Winter is here, and it's not just the common cold we need to be cautious about, but also norovirus-induced food poisoning. According to the Korea Food and Drug Administration, norovirus food poisoning is particularly concentrated from December to February, causing notorious symptoms of 'expelling from both ends.' In such situations, swift and effective action is crucial. Let's explore coping methods and preventive measures when faced with sudden severe diarrhea.

 

Remembering these preventive and coping methods can help maintain a safe lifestyle against norovirus food poisoning during the winter.

 

When experiencing severe diarrhea, hospital visit is better than hasty antidiarrheal medication

When dealing with sudden and severe diarrhea caused by norovirus, many people prefer antidiarrheal medications. However, these medications may not be a solution for norovirus. Representative products such as Daewoong Pharmaceutical's 'Diokta,' Daewon Pharmaceutical's 'PortaGel,' and Youngil Pharmaceutical's 'Rofmin Capsule' fall into this category. However, these products only absorb and eliminate substances like bacteria and intestinal toxins, not effectively addressing the root problem of norovirus.

 

Adhesive antidiarrheals like 'Diokta' or 'PortaGel' absorb and expel only substances like bacteria and intestinal toxins. However, they are not effective against viruses because viruses do not get absorbed. 'Rofmin Capsule' may exacerbate symptoms by slowing down intestinal movements, prolonging the time norovirus stays in the body.

 

When suspecting norovirus infection, it is advisable to consume ion drinks or barley tea and promptly seek medical attention instead of opting for antidiarrheal medications. Especially for the elderly, pregnant women, diabetics, and immunocompromised individuals, receiving specialized treatment at a hospital is the safest option.

 

Precautions for Preventing Norovirus Food Poisoning

Thoroughly Cook Seafood: Uncooked seafood is a major cause of norovirus food poisoning. It must be fully cooked at a central temperature of 85°C or higher for at least 1 minute. Groundwater potentially contaminated with norovirus should be boiled before consumption.

 

Maintain Personal Hygiene: Norovirus food poisoning can spread through contaminated food, water, and person-to-person contact. It is crucial to manage personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing and thorough cleaning and disinfection. When washing hands, use soap and detergent for at least 30 seconds, cleaning fingers and the back of the hands.

 

Manage Cooking Utensils: Cooking utensils such as knives and cutting boards should be separated based on the ingredients and sanitized or disinfected with heat. Those with suspicious symptoms should not participate in cooking, and even after recovery, it is advisable to exclude them from the kitchen for 2-3 days.

 

Drink Ion Drinks or Barley Tea for Hydration: To prevent dehydration due to diarrhea, it is essential to consume enough fluids. Drink ion drinks or barley tea, but avoid caffeine and alcohol, as these substances can accelerate fluid excretion, leading to dehydration.

 

Remembering these preventive and coping methods can help maintain a safe lifestyle against norovirus food poisoning during the winter. Wishing you a healthy and comfortable winter free from the unwelcome guest, norovirus.