An outbreak of food poisoning linked to norovirus-contaminated kimchi has swept through Namwon City, South Korea, leaving over 1,000 people affected, as reported by BBC. The local authorities initially confirmed nearly 1,000 cases by Friday, with numbers expected to exceed 1,000 by Saturday afternoon.
The source of the outbreak is traced back to kimchi, a popular fermented cabbage dish widely consumed in South Korea. This particular batch of kimchi, distributed through school meal programs, has led to widespread illness among students and staff at 24 schools. Symptoms reported include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, characteristic of norovirus infection.
Norovirus is highly contagious and spreads easily through contact with contaminated surfaces or individuals. While most affected individuals recover within a few days without needing hospitalization, severe cases can occur.
Namwon City officials responded swiftly to the escalating crisis, launching an investigation shortly after the first case was reported. Mayor Choi Kyung-sik used social media to reassure residents that health authorities were taking aggressive measures to contain the outbreak. Tests confirmed the presence of norovirus in patients, environmental samples, and the kimchi supplied to schools.
In response to the situation, Namwon City’s disaster and safety department took decisive action by temporarily halting production and sales from the implicated kimchi company. Additionally, the company initiated a voluntary recall of all distributed kimchi products. The name of the company involved has not been disclosed officially yet.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety of our citizens,” Mayor Choi Kyung-sik emphasized, urging continued vigilance and adherence to hygiene protocols to prevent further spread of the virus.