12 Oct 2010
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has reminded people to maintain good personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent food-borne diseases.
The appeal followed CHP's investigation into a suspected food poisoning outbreak affecting 11 persons.
The affected comprised six men and five women, aged between 26 and 60. They developed gastroenteritis symptoms including abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea and diarrhoea about two to 22 hours after having dinner at a restaurant in Hung Hom on October 10.
One of them sought medical attention and no hospitalisation was required. All the affected are in stable condition.
The investigation continues.
CHP reminded the public that when dining out, they should:
* Patronise only reputable and licensed restaurants;
* Do not patronise illegal food hawkers;
* Cook food thoroughly;
* Avoid eating raw seafood;
* Be a discerning consumer in choosing cold dishes, including sashimi and raw oysters in a buffet;
* Drink boiled water;
* Use two sets of chopsticks and eating utensils to handle raw and cooked food;
* Do not try to use salt, vinegar, wine and wasabi to kill bacteria as they are not effective; and
* Always wash hands before eating and after going to toilet.