Update on outbreak of acute gastroenteritis in primary school in Tseung Kwan O
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     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 15) provided an update on its investigation reported yesterday (May 14) into an outbreak of acute gastroenteritis  in a primary school in Tseung Kwan O.

     According to the updated information provided by the school, the CHP identified 82 additional affected pupils, comprising 50 boys and 32 girls aged 7 to 13.

     This brings the total number of affected persons to 128 students and six staff members so far. They have developed vomiting and diarrhoea since May 10. Among them, 78 have sought medical attention and two required hospitalisation. All affected persons have been in a stable condition.

      The CHP's investigations revealed that majority of the cases had their onset between May 10 and 13 before the school implemented thorough infection control measures in school premises and school buses yesterday and today.

      Officers of the CHP have again reminded the school management to adopt preventive measures against gastroenteritis. Medical surveillance on the school is continuing.

     The CHP's investigations are ongoing.

     Members of the public should take heed of the following preventive measures against gastroenteritis:
 
  • Ensure proper personal hygiene;
  • Wash hands thoroughly before handling food and eating, after using the toilet or after changing diapers;
  • Wear gloves when disposing of vomitus or faecal matter, and wash hands afterwards;
  • Clean and disinfect contaminated areas or items promptly and thoroughly with diluted household bleach (by adding one part of bleach containing 5.25 per cent sodium hypochlorite to 49 parts of water). Wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
  • Maintain good indoor ventilation;
  • Pay attention to food hygiene;
  • Use separate utensils to handle raw and cooked food;
  • Avoid food that is not thoroughly cooked;
  • Drink boiled water; and
  • Do not patronise unlicensed food premises and food stalls.

     The public may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Health Education Hotline (2833 0111) for more information.

Ends/Monday, May 15, 2017
Issued at HKT 20:20

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