Press Release

CHP investigates suspected food poisoning cases

13 May 2015

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (May 13) investigating two suspected food poisoning cases affecting six persons, and hence reminded the public to maintain personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent food-borne diseases.

The first cluster involved two males and two females aged from 4 to 60. They developed gastroenteritis symptoms including abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea and fever about 12 to 24 hours after consuming takeaway and ready-to-eat raw seafood ordered online on May 1. One of them sought medical consultation but did not require hospitalisation.

The second cluster comprised one male and one female, both aged 36, who developed similar symptoms about 24 to 27 hours after consuming dinner (including ready-to-eat raw seafood) delivered from the same online store on May 2. Both sought medical attention but did not require hospitalisation.

All affected persons are now in stable condition. Investigations are proceeding.

To prevent food-borne diseases, members of the public are reminded to maintain personal, food and environmental hygiene at all times. When dining out:

• Eat thoroughly cooked food;
• Avoid eating raw seafood;
• Buy food from reliable and licensed restaurants and food suppliers only;
• Do not patronise illegal food hawkers;
• 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 the toilet.