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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson of Kowloon Hospital (KH) made the following announcement today (29 December 2007):
Since 23 December 2007, a total of seven male patients (aged 67 to 93) of a medical extended care ward had presented with vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms. Test results of six patients were found positive to Norovirus. One patient, owing to other medical problem, was transferred to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment while the other patients are being treated in isolation in KH. All patients are in stable condition.
In addition, since 26 December 2007, a total of four female patients (aged 49 and 96) and a staff member of a psychiatry ward in the KH had presented with vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms. Test results of three patients were found positive to Norovirus. All concerned patients are being treated in isolation and in stable condition. The staff member is on sick leave and being treated.
Infection control measures have already been enhanced. There will be no admission to the wards for the time being. Visiting of the isolated cubicle in the wards is also suspended. All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance.
The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up.
Ends/Saturday, December 29, 2007
Issued at HKT 16:47
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