***********************************************************
The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson of Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital (PYNEH) made the following announcement today (June 16):
Six male patients (aged 74 to 89) in two wards (a medical ward and a mixed ward) have been confirmed to have carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) since April 28. Of the six patients, two are currently under medical treatment with critical and stable conditions respectively due to underlying disease. Three others had already been discharged. One had passed away due to underlying disease on May 15.
Enterobacteriaceae is a normal gut flora which is commonly found in healthy people. Some Enterobacteriaceae may contain resistant gene which can produce carbapenemase and become carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae. Patients of immunodeficiency are at risk of infection and complication. Colistin is the mainstay of antibiotic treatment.
The hospital Infection Control Team, departments concerned and experts of the Centre for Health Protection held a meeting and the following enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted in the concerned wards:
(1) Enhance patient screening procedures to the wards concerned;
(2) Apply stringent contact precautions, including dedicated use of patient care equipment to affected patients, and enhanced hand hygiene;
(3) Enhance cleansing and disinfection of the wards concerned; and
(4) Perform environmental samplings.
The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation of the wards. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up.
Ends/Thursday, June 16, 2016
Issued at HKT 20:01
NNNN
