CHP investigating acute gastroenteritis outbreak at kindergarten

11 Jan 2010

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 11) reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent gastroenteritis.

The appeal was made following CHP's investigation into an acute gastroenteritis outbreak in a kindergarten in Tsuen Wan.

The affected, 11 male and 10 female, comprised 19 students aged from three to five and two staff members. They developed symptoms of gastroenteritis, including diarrhoea and vomiting, since January 8.

One of the affected persons required hospitalisation. All of the affected are in stable condition.

Officers of the CHP have visited the kindergarten and provided health advice to the staff concerning proper disinfection, disposal of vomitus and faecal matter, as well as personal and environmental hygiene.

Investigation continues. The CHP will closely monitor the kindergarten for further cases and provide health advice when necessary.

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

* Ensure proper personal hygiene;
* wash hands thoroughly before handling food and eating, and after using the toilet;
* wear gloves when disposing of vomitus or faeces; and wash hands afterwards;
* clean and disinfect contaminated areas or items promptly and thoroughly with household bleach diluted at a ratio of 1:50 (by adding one part of household bleach to 49 parts of water);
* maintain good indoor ventilation;
* 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.