Kowloon Hospital updates on Norovirus cases
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     Regarding the cases of Norovirus infection in two wards of the Kowloon Hospital (KH), the hospital spokesperson announced the following update today (December 30):

     One more 81-year-old female patient of the concerned psychiatry ward had presented with vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms since today.  At present, a total of seven male patients (aged 67 to 93) from a medical extended care ward) and five female patients (aged 49 and 96) and a staff member from a psychiatry ward had presented with vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms. Test results of 11 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.  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/Sunday, December 30, 2007
Issued at HKT 17:33

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