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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 2) is investigating a suspected food poisoning case that occurred at a school fair on April 26.
Investigation revealed that a total of 124 persons, comprising 53 males and 71 females aged between one and 56, developed gastroenteritis symptoms, including diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain and fever, four to 71 hours after having snack food at the fair.
Fifty-five of them sought medical treatment from outpatient clinics, 20 attended Accident and Emergency Departments.
In addition, 22 required hospitalisation, of which 12 have been discharged. All are in stable condition.
Laboratory tests revealed that Group D Salmonella were found in stool specimens of 11 affected persons.
Further investigation is in progress.
Members of the public are reminded to observe good personal, food and environmental hygiene at all times to prevent food-borne diseases. When dining out:
* Only patronise 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 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;
* Always wash hands before eating and after going to the toilet.
Ends/Friday, May 2, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:37
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