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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson for Tai Po Hospital made the following announcement today (July 29):
Six patients (aged 64 to 84) of a male Medicine and Geriatric Ward have been confirmed to be carriers of Multi-drug Resistant Acinetobacter (MDRA) since July 11. Three of them are still hospitalised under medical surveillance and isolation with stable condition. Two patients have been transferred to Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital and North District Hospital respectively, and one has been discharged.
Acinetobacter is a bacteria which is commonly found in water and soil. It can also colonise or live in a patient without causing infection or symptoms. However, it may sometimes cause disease in patients with a weakened immune system. Effective antibiotics are available for treatment.
The following enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted in the ward concerned:
1. Enhancing disinfection and cleaning of the ward concerned;
2. Applying stringent contact precautions, including dedicated use of clinical equipment for MDRA carriers and enhanced hand hygiene; and
3. Performing environmental sampling for monitoring.
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, July 29, 2014
Issued at HKT 18:25
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