On April 19, 2025, a concerning health alert was issued by the Obihiro Health Center regarding an outbreak of norovirus at Hotel Daiheigen, located in Tokachi River Onsen, Shintoku Town, Hokkaido. A total of 140 guests at the hotel reported symptoms consistent with food poisoning, including diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.
The outbreak is believed to have affected guests who stayed at the hotel between April 8 and April 11, 2025. Out of 627 guests during that period, 140 individuals, ranging in age from 3 to 88 years old, developed serious symptoms. According to the health authorities, 51 of those affected sought medical attention, and notably, one woman in her 70s was hospitalized due to her condition. Fortunately, all reported cases are now on the path to recovery.
The Obihiro Health Center confirmed that norovirus was detected in both the stool samples of the affected guests and in the samples taken from kitchen staff who prepared the buffet meals during that time. This evidence led the health officials to conclude that the food served at the hotel was the source of the outbreak.
In response to the outbreak, Hotel Daiheigen has closed its doors temporarily to conduct thorough disinfection procedures. The hotel has been closed since April 13, 2025, to ensure the safety and health of future guests. During this closure, the hotel management has been proactive in implementing necessary measures, including cleaning and disinfecting all facilities and equipment, as well as providing hygiene education to the staff involved in food preparation.
Despite the serious nature of the incident, the Obihiro Health Center has not issued a business closure order against the hotel, as they confirmed that the management is taking appropriate actions to address the situation. It has been announced that Hotel Daiheigen plans to reopen on April 28, 2025, once they have completed the sanitation measures.
This recent incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with foodborne illnesses, particularly in settings where large groups gather for meals. Norovirus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly, especially in communal dining situations. Health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant about food safety practices, particularly in hospitality settings.
In light of these events, the Obihiro Health Center continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that all necessary precautions are taken to prevent further outbreaks. They have also encouraged anyone who may have experienced symptoms after dining at the hotel to seek medical advice promptly.
The local community has expressed concern over the outbreak, highlighting the importance of maintaining high hygiene standards in food service establishments. As the hotel prepares to reopen, they are expected to implement enhanced safety measures to reassure future guests of their commitment to health and safety.
This incident underscores the critical role of health authorities in managing food safety and public health, especially in tourist areas where outbreaks can have significant implications for both health and the local economy. The swift action taken by the Obihiro Health Center and the hotel management reflects a commitment to safeguarding public health and restoring confidence among visitors.
As the situation develops, further updates from the health center and hotel management will be crucial in informing the public and addressing any lingering concerns regarding the safety of dining at the hotel. The hospitality industry, particularly in regions like Hokkaido, relies heavily on tourism, making it essential to maintain a safe and healthy environment for all guests.
In conclusion, while the outbreak at Hotel Daiheigen is alarming, the effective response from health officials and hotel management aims to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of future guests. The reopening scheduled for April 28, 2025, will be closely watched by the community and health officials alike.
