TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Doctor Lu Hung-i (呂弘毅) said Tuesday that proper handwashing can help prevent enterovirus infections.

Lu, a National Taiwan University Hospital pediatrician, told Healthnews that enterovirus is highly contagious and can spread through contact, droplets, or contaminated food. Individuals may experience symptoms such as fever, runny nose, sneezing, and coughing.

According to Lu, hand sanitizers cannot eliminate viruses. “Individuals should wash their hands with soap, scrubbing thoroughly for at least 20 seconds, then rinse with plenty of water,” the doctor said.

Enterovirus outbreaks typically peak in summer, per the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). However, this year's winter outbreak is more severe, with infection numbers reaching a 10-year high.

“Enterovirus mainly affects young children,” Lu said. “However, infections among older children have increased significantly this year.”

Lu said enterovirus has different strains, with enterovirus A and B being the most common. He added that infection remains possible even with the enterovirus vaccine.