CHP issues warning after norovirus outbreak linked to bento boxes in Japan

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) has issued a warning to travelers about heightened vigilance regarding personal, environmental, and food hygiene due to a recent outbreak of norovirus linked to contaminated bento boxes in Japan.

This alert comes after an incident where 72 individuals suffered symptoms of food poisoning, such as diarrhea, fever, and vomiting, after consuming bento boxes from a dining establishment in southern Tochigi Prefecture last Wednesday (Apr 9).

One of the affected individuals has died, although the cause of death is still under investigation.

Investigations by the authorities revealed that stool samples from both the patients and the staff of the dining facility tested positive for norovirus.

Given that Japan is a popular travel destination near Hong Kong, and this year has seen a higher activity level of norovirus compared to the past five years, the  the Controller of the CHP of the Department of Health, Edwin Tsui, urges those planning to visit or currently in Japan to be extra cautious.

Norovirus is highly contagious, and even minimal contact with the virus can lead to infection.

It is important to note that alcohol does not kill norovirus effectively, and alcohol-based hand sanitizers should not replace hand washing with soap and water.