Press Release

Case of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 infection under CHP investigation

19 April 2016

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (April 19) investigating a case of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O157:H7 infection affecting a three-year-old boy, and hence reminded members of the public to maintain good personal, food and environmental hygiene against intestinal infections.

The patient, with underlying illness, has developed fever, abdominal pain and diarrhoea since April 10. He was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital on April 14 for treatment of his underlying illness, and was discharged on April 17. The patient has been in a stable condition all along.

His stool specimen grew STEC O157:H7 upon laboratory testing by the Public Health Laboratory Services Branch of the CHP.

Preliminary investigation by the CHP revealed that the patient has no recent travel history. He also has no recent history of consumption of unpasteurised milk or raw food, nor contact with animals or visits to farms. 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 infection, 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.