Phuket ramps up efforts to prevent norovirus amid regional outbreaks
Phuket officials are intensifying efforts to prevent a norovirus outbreak, particularly after a significant rise in cases in China and a recent outbreak in Rayong with over 1,400 infections.
In response to these threats, the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), along with the Department of Disease Control and the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office, conducted a workshop titled Phuket is Ready! To Cope with Norovirus at the PPAO offices yesterday, December 19.
Rewat Areerob, President of the PPAO, addressed attendees, underscoring the urgent need for preparedness. He stressed that with no specific vaccine or treatment available for norovirus, prevention remains crucial to controlling the spread.
“The virus’s rapid transmission could severely impact public health and the local economy if not addressed proactively.”
The workshop included insights from Dr Wichian Boonkitikorn, Director of the Epidemiology Division at the Department of Disease Control, who provided a special lecture detailing the characteristics of norovirus, its modes of transmission, and the current outbreak situation in China.
Kiatsak Chotiwongpipat, Deputy Director of the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office, shared an in-depth analysis of Phuket’s disease surveillance and prevention strategies, emphasising the importance of controlling potential local outbreaks.
Rewat highlighted the necessity of a proactive surveillance policy and called on government agencies, businesses, hotels, and local communities to cooperate.
“A united effort is essential for effectively preventing and managing any potential outbreak.”
The event attracted significant participation from government officials, private sector leaders, media personnel, and local business operators. The PPAO has committed to continuing its role as a centre for public health and safety, ensuring ongoing collaboration across all sectors to tackle emerging health challenges, said Rewat.
“The PPAO remains dedicated to providing timely information and fostering a culture of vigilance and cooperation throughout the province.”
The Phuket Provincial Public Health Office has issued notices to inform the public about norovirus. These notices, originally from the Division of General Communicable Diseases under the Ministry of Public Health, describe norovirus as a virus that causes inflammation in the digestive system.
It is highly contagious, spreading easily with minimal exposure, and is resistant to heat and many disinfectants, making it difficult to eliminate.
Norovirus can quickly cause diarrhoea and vomiting when food or water is contaminated, and it spreads rapidly, particularly in cooler weather. Both children and adults are susceptible to infection, reported The Phuket News.
The PPHO recommends adhering to proper food safety practices, such as consuming thoroughly cooked food served hot and prepared in hygienic conditions, to reduce the risk of infection.
