Norovirus & Food Poisoning
Winter gastroenteritis: Norovirus and food poisoning – Hydration methods and hospital guidelines.
Sudden vomiting and diarrhea.
Norovirus is a major cause of gastroenteritis during the winter months and can be transmitted through consumption of raw seafood like oysters, or by contact with infected individuals. Symptoms include sudden vomiting (especially in children), watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, and mild fever, lasting for 1 to 3 days.
- There is no specific cure, and rehydration is essentially the only treatment.
- If drinking water causes immediate vomiting, do not drink it all at once; instead, give small amounts with a spoon every 5 minutes.
- Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) from pharmacies are better than sports drinks. Do not use anti-diarrheal medications without consulting a pharmacist or doctor.
Source: 질병관리청 감염병포털 · as of 2026-08-13
Signs that you should see a doctor.
- Symptoms of dehydration such as significantly reduced urination and dry mouth (these can worsen rapidly in children and the elderly).
- When blood is present in stool, a fever persists above 38.5 degrees Celsius, or abdominal pain is severely concentrated in one area.
- When vomiting and diarrhea continue for more than two days – intravenous fluid therapy may be necessary.
To prevent it from spreading to family members,
Norovirus can be transmitted even in small amounts and is not effectively neutralized by alcohol-based disinfectants. Washing your hands with soap for 30 seconds is the best method. When cleaning up vomit, wear gloves and then wipe the area with a chlorine-based bleach solution (diluted bleach). Even after symptoms disappear, avoid cooking food for 2 to 3 days.
Source: 질병관리청 감염병포털 · as of 2026-08-13
Frequently asked questions
Can I eat radishes in winter?
It is safe to eat when cooked. Raw oysters can pose a risk of norovirus infection, so it is best for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems to avoid them. "Oysters intended for cooking" must be thoroughly cooked before consumption.
Can I take anti-diarrheal medication for food poisoning?
Diarrhea is also a process of expelling harmful substances, so using anti-diarrheal medication incorrectly in cases of bacterial gastroenteritis can actually worsen the condition. It's safer to seek medical attention while focusing on rehydration rather than self-treating with strong anti-diarrheal medications.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 감염병포털 (as of 2026-08-13)Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
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