CHP investigates outbreak of norovirus gastroenteritis in party place
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The 24 patients, including 13 children (six boys and seven girls) and 11 adults (three men and eight women) aged from 1 to 39, have presented with fever, vomiting and diarrhoea since October 1. Among them, 18 sought medical attention while five of them have been discharged after hospitalisation. All patients are now in a stable condition.
The stool specimen of one child tested positive for norovirus upon laboratory testing by the hospital concerned. Investigations are continuing.
Officers of the CHP have conducted a site visit and provided health advice to the responsible person concerning proper disinfection, disposal of vomitus, and personal and environmental hygiene. The venue has been put under medical surveillance.
A spokesman for the CHP advised members of the public to take heed of the following preventive measures against gastroenteritis:
· Ensure proper personal hygiene;
· Wash hands thoroughly before handling food and eating, after using the toilet or after changing diapers;
· Wear gloves when disposing of vomitus or faecal matter, and wash hands afterwards;
· Clean and disinfect contaminated areas or items promptly and thoroughly with diluted household bleach (by adding one part of bleach containing 5.25 per cent sodium hypochlorite to 49 parts of water). Wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
· Maintain good indoor ventilation;
· Pay attention to food hygiene;
· Use separate utensils to handle raw and cooked food;
· Avoid food that is not thoroughly cooked;
· Drink boiled water; and
· Do not patronise unlicensed food premises and food stalls.
The public may visit the CHP's page on norovirus infection or call the DH's Health Education Hotline (2833 0111) for more information.
Ends/Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Issued at HKT 17:59
Issued at HKT 17:59
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