Update on cluster of Candida auris cases in Queen Elizabeth Hospital
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Regarding an earlier announcement on Candida auris carrier cases, the spokesperson for Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) gave the following update today (December 6):
Following a contact tracing investigation, two more male patients aged 56 and 85 in the surgical ward were identified as carriers of Candida auris. One of the patients was discharged earlier, and the remaining patient is now being treated in isolation and is in stable condition.
The hospital will continue the contact tracing investigation of close contacts of the patients 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; and
- Application of stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene of staff and patients.
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, December 6, 2023
Issued at HKT 20:45
Issued at HKT 20:45
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