The Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), in collaboration with the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health and the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office, organised a comprehensive workshop titled ‘Phuket is Ready! To Cope with Norovirus’ held at the PPAO offices on Wednesday (Dec 18).
PPAO President Rewat Areerob delivered the opening address, stressing the critical need for preparedness.
Highlighting the virus’s rapid spread in China, he pointed out that norovirus has no specific vaccine or treatment, making prevention the cornerstone of disease control. He warned of the severe potential impact on public health and the local economy if proactive measures are not implemented.
The workshop featured several key activities, including expert Insights by Dr Wichian Boonkitikorn, Director of the Epidemiology Division, Department of Disease Control, who presented a special lecture on the characteristics of norovirus, its transmission and the current outbreak situation in China.
The workshop also focussed on local data analysis, with Kiatsak Chotiwongpipat, Deputy Director of the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office (PPHO), providin an in-depth overview of Phuket’s disease surveillance, prevention measures and strategies for controlling potential local outbreaks.
Mr Rewat emphasised a proactive surveillance policy, urging cooperation from government agencies, the business sector, hotels and local communities. He reiterated that a united effort is essential for effectively preventing and managing any potential outbreak.
The workshop drew significant attention from government representatives, private sector leaders, media personnel and local business operators.
The PPAO has pledged to continue its efforts as a hub for public health and safety, ensuring ongoing collaboration with all sectors to address emerging health challenges, Mr Rewat said.
“The PPAO remains steadfast in its mission to provide timely information and foster a culture of vigilance and cooperation throughout the province,” he added.
The PPHO has issued several notices informing the public of norovirus.
The notices, originally issued by the Division of General Communicable Diseases under the Ministry of Public Health’s Department of Disease Control, explained that norovirus is a virus that causes inflammation in the digestive system.
It spreads quickly and easily, even with minimal exposure. It is resistant to heat and many disinfectants, making it hard to eliminate. When food or water is contaminated with norovirus, it can cause diarrhea and vomiting and spreads rapidly.
The virus is more common in the cool season] and spreads easily in cooler weather, affecting both children and adults.
To prevent infection, stick to the principles of eating food that is thoroughly cooked, served hot, and prepared in clean conditions, the PPHO advises.