Norovirus outbreak in Osaka infects 48, claiming 2 lives

A hospital in Daito, Osaka has become the scene of a norovirus outbreak that has so far claimed the lives of two patients.

 Norovirus outbreak in Osaka infects 48, claiming 2 lives

Since the outbreak began on Nov 27, 48 patients and medical staff have contracted the norovirus at the hospital. An 88-year-old woman and a 76-year-old man are believed to have died of organ failure after being infected, NTV reported Wednesday.

Doctors say the gastroenteritis symptoms caused by norovirus include repeated vomiting and diarrhea. Although symptoms usually abate within a day or two, the norovirus can also cause dehydration in young children and the elderly, affecting chronic diseases.