Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection (CHP) has issued a warning for travelers to Japan after more than 150 people were reported to have contracted norovirus in recent weeks, with food poisoning cases linked to contaminated food.
Edwin Tsui, the controller of the CHP, stated that Japanese authorities confirmed the infections occurred after individuals consumed food at Kiichi, a restaurant in Osaka Prefecture, or ate strawberry daifuku and other sweets produced by Kiyotsuki Co. Ltd in Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture. The outbreaks have prompted a rise in cases of infectious gastroenteritis in Japan.
The CHP emphasized the need for Hong Kong residents to take precautions while traveling to Japan, including maintaining high standards of personal hygiene, food safety, and environmental cleanliness.
Norovirus, which is especially prevalent in winter months, is highly contagious and can spread through contaminated food or direct contact with infected individuals’ bodily fluids. It can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated surfaces.
Tsui warned that the ongoing situation could lead to a larger-scale outbreak. He advised travelers to wash their hands with soap and water instead of relying on alcohol-based hand sanitizers, as alcohol is ineffective in eliminating the virus.
Symptoms of norovirus infection include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, mild fever, and general fatigue. While most individuals recover within one to three days, the CHP urged vigilance to prevent further spread of the illness.
In related reports, the Japanese newspaper The Mainichi revealed that 33 people fell ill after consuming a traditional “kaiseki” meal and boxed meals at Kiichi restaurant in mid-February. Some of the restaurant staff were also affected. After a brief closure in late February, the restaurant reopened, but food poisoning incidents continued, leading to an indefinite suspension ordered by the Japanese government.
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