Norovirus is the main pathogen that causes acute gastroenteritis in densely populated places such as schools and childcare institutions. It has high infectivity and rapid transmission ability, and the entire population is generally susceptible. The immune protection time after infection is short, especially in winter. How to prevent norovirus? How should schools respond? The reporter interviewed experts from the Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention. According to the Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention, norovirus is mainly transmitted through fecal oral routes, such as ingestion of contaminated food and water, contact with patient excreta or vomit, or contact with contaminated hands, objects, or utensils, as well as aerosols produced by vomit or feces. It is particularly important to note that oysters and other shellfish can accumulate norovirus in seawater, making them high-risk foods. Jia Lei, Deputy Director of the Institute of Infectious Diseases and Local Disease Control at the Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said that human infection with Norovirus can lead to acute gastroenteritis, which usually occurs within 12 to 48 hours. The most common symptoms are diarrhea and vomiting, followed by nausea, abdominal pain, headache, fever, chills, and muscle soreness; Children are more prone to vomiting than adults. Norovirus acute gastroenteritis is a self limiting disease, with mild symptoms that usually last for 2 to 3 days and a good prognosis. However, the recovery of elderly people, young children, or patients with underlying diseases is slower, and some cases may develop into severe cases Jia Lei said that there is currently no vaccine to prevent norovirus, and there is no specific medication to use after infection. The main treatment methods are fluid replacement and symptomatic treatment. However, if dehydration is severe, it is necessary to seek medical attention at a medical institution. Experts suggest that in order to prevent norovirus infection, parents should first educate their children to develop the good habit of washing their hands carefully with soap before and after meals. They should also pay attention to disinfecting tissues and disposable hand sanitizers, which cannot replace hand washing. At the same time, parents should encourage children to strengthen physical exercise, maintain a balanced diet, and follow a regular schedule to enhance their body's resistance. In addition, children should be reminded that if any classmates vomit in the class, they must leave the scene quickly and orderly under the guidance of the teacher. Designated personnel should use chlorine containing agents to disinfect the vomit, contaminated areas, and items while wearing masks, gloves, and other protective equipment to reduce the possibility of contracting norovirus. The Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention reminds schools to develop infectious disease prevention and control plans and emergency plans, strictly implement systems such as morning and afternoon check ups, absenteeism registration, case tracking, and verification of resumption certificates. Adequate and effective disinfection materials and personal protective equipment should be provided, and public places such as classrooms, dormitories, canteens, and bathrooms within the school should be regularly cleaned and disinfected, as well as key areas such as door handles, stair handrails, sinks, toilets, elevator buttons, etc. (New Society)