An acute norovirus gastroenteritis outbreak in a hospital / 中国医学科学院学报

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate and analyze a case of acute norovirus gastroenteritis outbreak in a hospital.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Data were collected through the on-the-spot investigation and faecal specimens were tested by polymerase chain reaction-reverse transcription (RT-PCR). Serum specimens were tested by Western blot.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The outbreak lasted 26 days. A total of 87 cases were reported, including 65 inpatients, 15 healthcare workers, 6 accompanies, and 1 pantryman. Twelve (60%) of 20 stool specimens were norovirus-positive by RT-PCR and 19 of 24 blood samples were norovirus-positive by Western blot. The outbreak was effectively controlled by isolating and treating the patients, extensive disinfection, and health education.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The gastroenteritis outbreak was caused by norovirus with unkown infection source.</p>