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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 4) reminded members of the public and management of schools to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent gastroenteritis.
The appeal was made following the CHP's investigation into an acute gastroenteritis outbreak in a secondary school in Yuen Long involving 23 students.
The affected, 11 male and 12 female students , were aged from 12 to 17. They had developed symptoms of gastroenteritis, including diarrhea and vomiting since March 3.
Thirteen of the affected have sought medical consultation. None required hospitalisation. All are in stable condition.
Officers of the CHP have visited the school and provided health advice to the staff concerning proper disinfection, disposal of vomitus matter, as well as personal and environmental hygiene.
Investigation continues. The CHP will closely monitor the school and provide health advice when necessary.
To prevent gastroenteritis, members of the public are advised to:
* Ensure proper personal hygiene;
* Wash hands thoroughly before handling food and eating, and after using the toilet;
* Wear gloves when disposing of vomitus or faeces, and wash hands afterwards;
* Clean and disinfect contaminated areas or items promptly and thoroughly with diluted household bleach (by adding one part of household bleach containing 5.25% sodium hypochlorite to 49 parts of water) ;
* Maintain good indoor ventilation; and
* Avoid food that is not thoroughly cooked.
Members of the public can obtain more information on the prevention of gastroenteritis from the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Unit hotline, 2833 0111.
Ends/Friday, March 4, 2011
Issued at HKT 21:44
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