***********************************************************
The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson for Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Wong Tai Sin Hospital (WTSH) made the following announcement today (September 10):
An 87-year-old female patient admitted to the Tuberculosis and Chest ward was tested positive for Vanocomycin Resistant Enterococci (VRE) on September 6. In accordance with the prevailing infection control guidelines, the hospital has screened patients who had contact with the index patient. Three male patients (aged 75 to 82) have been confirmed as VRE carriers today, all without clinical symptoms. Among the four patients, three are still hospitalised under medical surveillance and isolation with stable condition. The remaining patient has been discharged.
The following enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted in the ward:
1. Disinfection and cleansing have been enhanced; and
2. Stringent contact precautions have been applied, including dedicated used of clinical items to VRE carriers, enhanced hand hygiene.
The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up. The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation of the ward.
Ends/Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Issued at HKT 20:05
NNNN
