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CHP investigates three food poisoning outbreaks suspected to be related to consumption of raw oysters
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     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (December 29) reported its investigations into three food poisoning outbreaks suspected to be related to the consumption of raw oysters in three different restaurants, and again urged the public to maintain strict personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent food-borne diseases.

     They involve:

1. One man and two women, aged from 25 to 39, who have developed abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting about 11 to 50 hours after having lunch (including raw oysters) in a restaurant in Yau Ma Tei on December 17. All sought medical attention;

2. Two women, aged from 36 to 37, who have developed similar symptoms about 30 to 33 hours after having dinner (including raw oysters) in a restaurant in Kowloon Bay on December 19. Both sought medical attention; and

3. One man and three women, aged from 22 to 24, who have developed similar symptoms about 16 to 59 hours after having dinner (including raw oysters) in a restaurant in Tsim Sha Tsui on December 25. One sought medical attention.

     No hospitalisation was required and all affected persons have remained in stable condition.

     The CHP's investigations are ongoing.

     "We have alerted the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department to the cases." a spokesman for the CHP said.

     To prevent food-borne diseases, members of the public are reminded to maintain personal, food and environmental hygiene at all times. When dining out:
 
  • Raw oysters are considered a high-risk food. Persons who consume undercooked or contaminated oysters may contract food-borne diseases such as norovirus, hepatitis A virus or harmful bacteria like Vibrio parahaemolyticus;
  • High-risk populations including children, the elderly and persons with weakened immunity should avoid eating undercooked food, such as shellfish and particularly raw oysters;
  • Be a discerning consumer in choosing cold dishes, including sashimi, sushi and raw oysters, at a buffet;
  • Ensure food is thoroughly cooked before eating during a hot pot or barbecue meal;
  • Handle raw and cooked foods carefully and separate them completely during the cooking process;
  • Use two sets of chopsticks and eating utensils to handle raw and cooked food;
  • Patronise only reliable and licensed restaurants;
  • Do not patronise illegal food hawkers;
  • Drink boiled water;
  • 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/Friday, December 29, 2017
Issued at HKT 22:00
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