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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson of Kowloon Hospital made the following announcement today (February 5):
Five patients (aged 61 to 90) in a male rehabilitation ward have been confirmed as carriers of Multi-drug Resistant Acinetobacter (MDRA) since January 24. One of the patients has passed away due to underlying disease and another has been discharged. The others are still hospitalised in isolation and under medical surveillance, and are in a stable condition.
Acinetobacter is a bacteria which is commonly found in water and soil. It can also colonise or live in a patient without causing infection or symptoms. However, it may sometimes cause disease in patients with a weakened immune system. Effective antibiotics are available for treatment.
The following enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted in the ward concerned:
1. Enhanced disinfection and cleansing of the ward;
2. Stringent contact precautions, including dedicated use of clinical equipment for MDRA carriers and enhanced hand hygiene; and
3. Environmental samplings for monitoring.
The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up. The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation on the ward.
Ends/Friday, February 5, 2016
Issued at HKT 18:23
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