************************************************************
The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
Regarding the announcement earlier that there were in-patients found to be Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci (VRE) carriers, the spokesperson of Queen Elizabeth Hospital made the following update today (October 26):
In accordance with the prevailing infection control guidelines, three more male patients (aged 65 to 87) have been shown to be probable carriers of VRE in preliminary laboratory tests during contact tracing, but all are without clinical symptoms. Laboratory tests are in progress pending final results. The three probable VRE carriers are in stable condition and under medical surveillance and isolation.
The hospital will continue the enhanced infection control measures and the situation will be closely monitored.
The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.
Ends/Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Issued at HKT 19:07
NNNN
