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Press Release

CHP investigates acute gastroenteritis outbreak at kindergarten

30 August 2012

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (August 30) reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain personal and environmental hygiene to prevent gastroenteritis.

The appeal was made following the CHP's investigation into an acute gastroenteritis outbreak at a kindergarten cum child care centre in Yau Tsim Mong District involving 26 pupils aged between 2 and 5 and three staff members aged between 18 and 26.

The affected, comprising 11 males and 18 females, developed symptoms of gastroenteritis, including vomiting, diarrhoea and fever, since August 24.

Officers of the CHP have visited the school and provided health advice to the staff concerning proper disinfection, disposal of vomitus, and personal and environmental hygiene.

The investigation is ongoing. The CHP will closely monitor the institution 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 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.

30 August 2012