9 August 2010
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (August 9) investigating a suspected food poisoning case involving 15 members of a tour group and reminded people to observe good personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent food-borne diseases.
The people affected, 13 females and two males aged between four and 62, were members of a tour group visiting Thailand. They developed gastroenteritis symptoms including diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting after having dinner in Bangkok on August 7.
Three of them sought medical treatment after returning to Hong Kong. No hospitalisation was required. All affected persons are in stable condition.
The investigation is on-going.
People are reminded to observe good personal, food and environmental hygiene at all times to prevent food-borne diseases. When dining out:
* Patronise only reputable and licensed restaurants;
* Do not patronise illegal food hawkers;
* Cook food thoroughly;
* Avoid eating raw seafood;
* Be a discerning consumer in choosing cold dishes, including sashimi, sushi and raw oysters in a buffet;
* Drink boiled water;
* Use two sets of chopsticks and eating utensils to handle raw and cooked food;
* 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.