Norovirus Detection in Environmental Samples from Norovirus Outbreaks in Schools and Kindergartens — Beijing Municipality, China, October–December 2020

Abstract

What is already known on this topic? The norovirus has often caused outbreaks in schools and kindergartens, but minimal research has been performed on environmental contamination during norovirus outbreaks in schools and kindergartens. What is added by this report? This report conveys the norovirus detection rates and viral loads in different environmental sites in 45 norovirus outbreaks in Beijing Municipality from October to December 2020. What are the implications for public health practice? The evidence presented here can instruct professionals and the public to sample and disinfect key locations of the environment purposefully when responding to norovirus outbreaks.