14 Jun 2010
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 14) reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent gastroenteritis.
The appeal was made following the CHP's investigation into an acute gastroenteritis outbreak in a kindergarten in Causeway Bay.
The affected, 12 male and eight female children , were aged from three to six. They had developed symptoms of gastroenteritis, including diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain, since June 5.
Stool specimens collected from two of the affected children were tested negative for EV 71. Further testing is in progress.
All the affected have sought medical consultation. None required hospitalisation. All are in stable condition.
Officers of the CHP have visited the kindergarten and provided health advice to the staff concerning proper disinfection, disposal of vomitus and faecal matter, as well as personal and environmental hygiene.
Investigation continues. The CHP will closely monitor the kindergarten 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 household bleach diluted at a ratio of 1:50 (by adding one part household bleach to 49 parts 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.