TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Historical surveillance data indicated a rise in acute diarrhea cases during the Lunar New Year holiday, the Centers for Disease Control stated Monday.
The CDC urges the public to prioritize hand hygiene and food safety during the holiday and to seek medical attention if gastrointestinal discomfort such as vomiting or diarrhea arises. Food and beverage businesses should also strengthen hygiene management among staff and the environment.
From Jan. 12 to 18, outpatient and emergency room visits for diarrhea totaled 187,282, surpassing the 102,371 to 158,399 range recorded during the same period from 2020 to 2024, the CDC said. The past four weeks saw 246 reports of diarrhea clusters, compared to 53 cases last year.
Diarrhea, defined medically as having more than three loose stools per day or stools weighing over 250 grams, is the primary symptom of gastroenteritis, an inflammatory reaction in the gastrointestinal tract. It is often accompanied by vomiting, abdominal pain, and sometimes mild fever, occurring within a short period, according to Eonway.
The severity of symptoms varies based on age, overall health, the infectious bacteria, and the amount of contaminated food consumed. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as infants, the elderly, and those with immune disorders, are at higher risk and should take extra precautions.
The CDC advises the public to maintain proper hand hygiene, be mindful of food safety practices, use serving utensils when sharing food, and opt for cooked food. It is crucial to avoid eating undercooked eggs, meat, or raw shellfish, such as oysters, which pose higher risks.
Those with suspected symptoms should avoid preparing family meals, seek medical attention promptly, or rest at home to minimize contact with vulnerable groups to reduce the risk of transmission.
The CDC advises individuals experiencing vomiting or diarrhea to rest at home until at least 48 hours after symptoms subside before returning to work or school. Wearing a mask, practicing proper hand hygiene, and avoiding contact with the face are essential to limit transmission.
