CHP investigating a norovirus gastroenteritis outbreak

8 Jan 2010

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 8) reminded members of the public to maintain strict personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent gastroenteritis.

The appeal followed CHP's investigation into a gastroenteritis outbreak affecting 42 people.

The affected group, eight males and 34 females aged from 70 to 95, developed gastroenteritis symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain after attending a banquet at a restaurant in Tseung Kwan O on December 29, 2009.

The stool samples of three affected persons tested positive for norovirus.

Six of the affected persons were hospitalised and were discharged after treatment. They are in stable condition.

Investigation continues.

To prevent gastroenteritis, members of the public are advised to:

* Ensure proper personal hygiene;
* Wash hands thoroughly before eating and after using the toilet or handling vomitus or faecal matter;
* Avoid food that is not thoroughly cooked.

Members of the public can obtain more information on the prevention of gastroenteritis from CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Unit hotline, 2833 0111.