[Characteristic of Norwalk gastroenteritis and its prevention]

The application of recently developed molecular technique revealed the important role of the Norwalk virus(NV). The major role of the NV as agents of food and water-related outbreaks of gastroenteritis has now been recognized in the world. Moreover, a part of NV is also documented as important agents of gastroenteritis in childhood and infancy. A high rate of food-related viral gastroenteritis outbreaks was observed following ingestion of shellfish in Japan. Specific methods are not available for the prevention or control of NV gastroenteritis. Hand washing will be the most effective to decrease transmission within a family and a hospital. To control food-borne diseases a different strategy is necessary with virus and bacteria.