Norovirus Likely Behind Most Gastroenteritis Cases Among Kindergarten Children in Georgia, Health Authorities Say

Norovirus was most likely responsible for the majority of gastroenteritis cases reported among kindergarten children in Georgia, according to preliminary laboratory findings released by the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC).

The NCDC said it launched an investigation on September 17, immediately after cases of gastroenteritis were detected among children attending kindergartens.

Health officials said the affected children were recovering well, with no serious or life-threatening complications reported. Most of the children have already entered the recovery phase and are expected to return to their normal routines soon.

“Laboratory test results indicate that norovirus was most likely responsible for the vast majority of cases,” the NCDC said in a statement.

The agency stressed that investigations remain ongoing and that the public will be informed as soon as the final results become available.

Norovirus is one of the leading causes of viral gastroenteritis worldwide. According to Georgian health data, it accounts for approximately 40–45% of viral gastroenteritis cases in the country.

The infection typically causes vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea, sometimes accompanied by fever. Most people recover within one to three days without specific treatment, although maintaining adequate hydration and electrolyte balance is essential.

The NCDC advised parents to ensure that affected children receive sufficient fluids and follow an appropriate diet. It recommended avoiding dairy products, fatty, fried and spicy foods for at least three to four days, while emphasising that medication for diarrhoea and vomiting should only be administered under medical supervision.

To prevent further transmission, health authorities urged the public to follow strict hygiene measures, including washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds and thoroughly disinfecting contaminated surfaces.

The NCDC also confirmed that relevant departments of Georgia’s Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture had been involved from the outset to investigate food safety at the affected childcare facilities.

The investigation is continuing, with final laboratory findings expected to provide further clarity on the source and extent of the outbreak.