(NewsInsights.org) – Improperly prepared foods can cause a host of food-borne illnesses, including salmonella and norovirus. The latter is very contagious and can spread quickly. In South Korea, a recent outbreak has been linked to a popular food item in the country.
On Wednesday, July 3, officials in Namwon City began an epidemiological investigation into a case of norovirus. The first incidence was reported the day prior but soon escalated from 153 cases on Wednesday to 745 the following day. By the weekend, more than 1,000 were infected, including students and staff members from 24 different schools.
Officials were able to track the source of the illness to kimchi, a salted and fermented vegetable dish typically made with cabbage, served as part of lunch meals in the city. Mayor Choi Kyung-sik said a “pre-emptive and excessive response” was underway, and the city would “ensure the safety of [its] citizens.” That action included the disaster and safety department suspending the production and sale of any products from the company that produced the kimchi. That company has also initiated a full product recall.
Norovirus is a short-lived illness that typically doesn’t require hospitalization or medical treatment but can more severely affect those with weakened immune systems. It causes acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestine linings. Symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, and headaches, may present within 12 to 48 hours after consuming contaminated food. The illness normally lasts 1 to 3 days and fades without any treatment.
In the United States, a norovirus outbreak earlier this year overtook cruise ships, and many people got sick at sea. In late February, an Alabama school shut down for two days due to an “alarming number” of illnesses among students and staff. More than 1,200 students missed school due to a stomach bug, prompting the health department to launch an investigation.
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