Update on Candida auris cases in Princess Margaret Hospital
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Regarding an earlier announcement on Candida auris carrier cases, the spokesperson for Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) gave the following update today (November 18):
After contact tracing, one more 85-year-old male patient of a neurosurgery ward in PMH was confirmed as a Candida auris carrier while not having signs of infection. The patient has been discharged.
The hospital will continue the contact tracing of close contacts of the patient in accordance with the prevailing guidelines. A series of enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted to prevent the spread of Candida auris:
- Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the wards concerned;
- Enhanced admission screening for patients and environmental screening procedures;
- Application of stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene for staff and patients;
- Introduction of PCR rapid test for early identification of virus carrier; and
- Application of designated equipment for patient use to avoid cross-infection.
The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation of the patient. The case has been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.
Ends/Wednesday, November 18, 2020
Issued at HKT 17:40
Issued at HKT 17:40
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