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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (July 14) investigating a suspected food poisoning outbreak involving 13 persons and reminded people to maintain good personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent food-borne diseases.
The affected comprised four males and nine females, aged between 19 and 50. They developed gastroenteritis symptoms including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and fever about eight to 22 hours after having a lunch party in their office on July 11. Eleven of them sought medical consultation and one was hospitalised. All the affected are in stable condition.
The investigation continues.
CHP reminded the public that they should:
* Patronise only reputable and licensed restaurants;
* Do not patronise illegal food hawkers;
* Cook food thoroughly;
* Avoid eating raw seafood;
* Be a discerning consumer in choosing cold dishes, including sashimi and raw oysters in a buffet;
* Drink boiled water;
* Use two sets of chopsticks and eating utensils to handle raw and cooked food;
* Do not try to use salt, vinegar, wine and wasabi to kill bacteria as they are not effective; and
* Always wash hands before eating and after going to toilet.
Ends/Thursday, July 14, 2011
Issued at HKT 20:23
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