Cluster of Clostridium Difficile toxin cases at Wong Tai Sin Hospital
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     A spokesperson for Tung Wah Group of Hospitals' Wong Tai Sin Hospital (WTSH) made the following announcement today (February 21):

     Five patients (two male and three female, aged 60 to 78) in a tuberculosis and chest ward recently presented with diarrhoea symptoms. Appropriate tests were arranged for the patients and they were found to be positive to Clostridium Difficile toxin.  Four of the patients are being treated under isolation, of whom three are in a stable condition while one is in a serious condition due to underlying chronic disease. The other patient recovered and has been discharged.

     Admission to the ward concerned has been suspended and restricted visiting has also been imposed. Infection control measures have been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the ward are under close medical surveillance.

     The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up.

Ends/Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:41

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