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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
Regarding an earlier announcement by Castle Peak Hospital (CPH) about seven patients of a male long stay ward who presented with respiratory symptoms, New Territories West Cluster announced the following updates today (28 May):
Today two more patients in the ward were transferred to Tuen Mun Hospital (TMH) for isolation treatment. The nine patients in TMH are now in stable condition.
A series of microbiology tests were being done and positive result of Human Metapneumo virus was found today in the sample of seven patients. Other investigation results are still pending. According to the laboratory findings, it was concluded that the cluster of cases has been caused by the Human Metapneumo Virus.
Infection control measures of the ward concerned at CPH would continue to be stepped up. Patients were being cohorted for treatment. Full personal protection equipment is required for all staff entering into the ward. Admission and visiting to the ward have been suspended. All other patients in the ward are under close surveillance, contact tracing are underway. Staff deployment was being arranged to ensure smooth running of the ward while adhering to infection control principles.
The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for follow up.
Ends/Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Issued at HKT 20:15
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