14 Oct 2011
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 14) reminded members of the public and management of schools to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent gastroenteritis.
The appeal was made following the CHP's investigation into an acute gastroenteritis outbreak at a kindergarten in Tseung Kwan O involving 20 children.
Those affected, 14 male and six female pupils, were aged from three to four. They had developed symptoms of gastroenteritis, including vomiting, diarrhoea and fever since October 11.
All the affected pupils are in a stable condition and none have required hospitalisation.
Officers of the CHP have visited the school and provided health advice to the staff concerning proper disinfection, disposal of vomitus matter, as well as personal and environmental hygiene.
Investigation continues. The CHP will closely monitor the school 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 diluted household bleach (by adding one part of household bleach containing 5.25 per cent sodium hypochlorite to 49 parts of water) ;
* Maintain good indoor ventilation; and
* Avoid food that is not thoroughly cooked.
Members of the public can obtain more information on the prevention of gastroenteritis from the CHP's website ( www.chp.gov.hk ) or call the Central Health Education Unit hotline, 2833 0111.