Outbreak Investigation
Norovirus Outbreak at A Farm–Taichung City, February 2015
DOI: 10.6525/TEB. 20151124.31(22).003Shu-Hui Chang1, Sung-Hsi Wei1,2, Fang-Tzy Wu3, Shu-Hui Hsieh1, Pei-Fang Lai1, Ching-Fen Ko1,4, Min-Cheng Lin1, Du-Ling Lin1＊
2015 Vol.31 NO.22
Correspondence Author： Du-Ling Lin1＊
- 1Central Regional Center, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
- 2Department of Public Health of China Medical University
- 3Center for Research, Diagnostics and Vaccine Development, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
- 4Department of Public Health of Tzu Chi University
Abstract：
During Feb 14–23, 2015, a foodborne outbreak was reported in Taichung City. Of the 330 people used the catering services in a farm, 87 showed symptoms of gastroenteritis (attack rate 26%). Of 31 bacterial anal swabs and 29 stool specimens for virological tests, enterotoxintype B Staphylococcus (n = 1), enterotoxin type C Staphylococcus (n = 1), norovirus GII.17 (n = 11), norovirus GII.4 (n = 2), and rotavirus (n = 3) were detected. Epidemiologic investigation concluded that this is an outbreak of norovirus infection. With the cooperation of environmental disinfection, halt catering service, and the joint health unit inspections, no new patient was identified since March 2. This outbreak sickened more than 200 people and attracted public attention from the media and society. The health agencies put lots of resources in prevention and control, and the farm had closed for days. Norovirus outbreak can result in enormous social and personal losses and remind us the importance of its prevention and control.
