Press Release

Case of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infection under CHP investigation

3 February 2016

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 3) investigating a case of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infection affecting a 19-month-old boy, and hence reminded members of the public to maintain good personal, food and environmental hygiene against intestinal infections.

The patient, with good past health, has developed fever and diarrhoea since January 25. He was admitted to a private hospital on January 26 and has been in a stable condition all along.

His stool specimen grew STEC upon laboratory testing by the Public Health Laboratory Services Branch of the CHP.

Preliminary investigation by the CHP revealed that the patient had travelled to Thailand from January 8 to 22. He had no recent consumption of unpasteurised milk or raw food. His home contacts remained asymptomatic.

Investigation is continuing.

"E. coli is a bacterium that is commonly found in the gut of humans and warm-blooded animals. Most strains of E. coli are harmless. Some strains, however, such as STEC, can produce powerful toxins and cause severe food-borne disease. The most recognised serogroup of STEC is E. coli O157:H7," a spokesman for the CHP explained.

Preventive measures for STEC infections are similar to those recommended for other food-borne diseases. The public are advised to observe good personal and food hygiene:

• Wash hands properly with liquid soap and water before eating or handling food, and after going to the toilet or changing diapers;
• Cook food and boil water thoroughly before consumption. Most food-borne viruses and bacteria (including STEC) can be killed when food is cooked or reheated long enough at sufficient high temperature. When cooking or reheating, the core temperature of the food should reach at least 75 degrees Celsius;
• Avoid eating unpasteurised milk or undercooked food; and
• Consult a doctor immediately if symptoms of STEC infections, particularly bloody diarrhoea, develop.

The public may visit the CHP's website ( www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/24/23315.html ) for more information on STEC infection.