Norovirus confirmed in Salaspils kindergarten outbreak

Norovirus caused an outbreak at the Jāņtārpiņš kindergarten in Salaspils, laboratory tests and an epidemiological investigation have found, LSM reported. The infection was confirmed in 40 of 51 people tested, including sick people and their contacts, or 78.4%.

A total of 92 cases have been recorded since the outbreak began last week, including nine among adults, the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (SPKC) told news agency LETA. The centre is continuing its investigation and monitoring cases in cooperation with other institutions.

The Food and Veterinary Service inspected the kindergarten’s food preparation facilities after receiving reports of illness and found no breaches of hygiene requirements. Thirteen samples taken from surfaces have been sent for laboratory testing, with results still pending.

Norovirus symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain and nausea. SPKC advises thorough handwashing with soap, keeping sick children at home and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces or objects contaminated by bodily fluids.

Norovirus cases occur throughout the year, with a seasonal increase during colder months. The illness usually lasts two to three days. It spreads most often through direct contact between people or contaminated shared objects, and can also be transmitted through contaminated food or water.