CHP investigates case of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli infection
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The case involves a 1-year-old girl, with good past health, who has developed diarrhoea since October 26 and was admitted to a private hospital for management on October 27. She was discharged on October 28 in stable condition.
Her stool specimen grew STEC upon laboratory testing.
Initial enquiries of the CHP revealed that the patient had travelled to Bali, Indonesia, from October 22 to 25 and consumed fresh orange juice. She did not consume unpasteurised milk or raw food, or have contact with animals or visit farms. Her home contacts had diarrhoea during the trip and all recovered after seeking medical advice locally. Investigations are ongoing.
"Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a bacterium that is commonly found in the gut of humans and warm-blooded animals. Most strains of E. coli are harmless. Some strains, however, such as STEC, can produce powerful toxins and cause severe food-borne disease. The most recognised serogroup of STEC is E. coli O157:H7," a spokesman for the CHP explained.
Preventive measures for STEC infections are similar to those recommended for other food-borne diseases. The public are advised to observe good personal and food hygiene:
- Wash hands properly with liquid soap and water before eating or handling food, and after going to the toilet or changing diapers;
- Cook food and boil water thoroughly before consumption. Most food-borne viruses and bacteria (including STEC) can be killed when food is cooked or reheated long enough at sufficient high temperature. When cooking or reheating, the core temperature of the food should reach at least 75 degrees Celsius;
- Avoid consumption of unpasteurised milk or undercooked food; and
- Consult a doctor immediately if symptoms of STEC infection, particularly bloody diarrhoea, develop.
The public may visit the CHP's STEC page for more information.
Ends/Tuesday, October 31, 2017
Issued at HKT 18:45
Issued at HKT 18:45
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