The Centers for Disease Control says nearly 90 percent of recent diarrhea
cluster outbreaks during the Lunar New Year holiday have been caused by
norovirus.

The CDC adds that norovirus spreads easily through contact with vomit or
fecal matter.



Health officials said clinic visits for diarrhea rose about 15 percent on
the first day of the holiday compared with Lunar New Year’s Eve, although
the total number remained lower than in previous years.

The CDC noted that infants, the elderly, and people with weakened immune
systems are more likely to develop severe symptoms, and advised anyone with
vomiting or diarrhea to remain at home until at least 48 hours after symptoms
subside.



Health officials are urging the public to practice good hygiene, including
frequent handwashing with soap before food preparation and meals, thoroughly
cooking food, and disinfecting contaminated clothing or bedding.

Wearing masks in public places can also help reduce transmission.