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The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is today (December 19) investigating a suspected food poisoning outbreak involving 21 people and reminded the public to maintain personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent food-borne diseases.
The case involved three males and 18 females, aged between one and 47. They developed abdominal pain, diarrhoea and vomiting about nine to 49 hours after having lunch during a Christmas party in a workplace in Kwai Tsing on December 17.
Seven of them sought medical consultation and one required hospitalisation. All of those affected are in stable condition.
The investigation continues.
People are reminded to maintain personal, food and environmental hygiene at all times to prevent food-borne diseases. When dining out:
* 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, sushi and raw oysters, at 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 the toilet.
Ends/Monday, December 19, 2011
Issued at HKT 21:18
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