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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a domestic cluster of typhoid fever following the confirmation of two cases involving a 10-year-old boy and his nine-year-old sister living in Yuen Long and the display of symptoms by their two brothers.
The diagnoses of the two confirmed cases were made through positive blood culture results confirmed yesterday (December 12) and today.
The boy and his sister developed fever on December 6 and November 24 respectively and were admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital on December 8 and 9. They are now in a stable condition.
Two of their siblings, two boys aged 10 and 13, also had fever, abdominal pain and vomiting which started on November 25 and 27 respectively. They were admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital on December 4 and 5 respectively.
Bacteriological culture is being performed to confirm if they also have typhoid fever. Their parents had no symptoms and have been put under medical surveillance. Health advice was also given to them.
Clinical and environmental samples were taken to help ascertain the source of infection. Preliminary investigations did not reveal a suspicious food source.
There was no abnormal illness at the children's school. The CHP is arranging a health talk for the school. At present, the evidence suggests a domestic cluster of infection possibly with intra-familial spread. Investigations are ongoing.
Typhoid fever is caused by the bacteria, salmonella typhi, and the incubation period is usually seven to 21 days. It is transmitted by consuming water or food contaminated by the faeces or urine of patients or carriers. The onset of the illness is usually marked by fever, tiredness, chills, headache and generalised muscle and joint aches. Diarrhoea occurs infrequently.
To prevent infection, members of the public should observe the following measures:
* Wash hands properly with soap and water before eating or handling food, and after going to the toilet or changing nappies.
* Clean, wash and cook food thoroughly.
* Do not handle cooked food with bare hands; wear gloves.
* Handle and store raw and cooked food, especially seafood, separately to avoid cross contamination.
* Buy fresh food from reliable sources. Do not patronise illegal hawkers.
Ends/Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Issued at HKT 19:36
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