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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a report of suspected food poisoning involving 12 people.
The affected, all men aged between 28 and 56, developed abdominal pain and diarrhoea about 15 to 25 hours after having lunch in a restaurant in Causeway Bay on January 12.
Two of them sought medical attention from private doctors. One other sought treatment from the Accident and Emergency Department of the Prince of Wales Hospital. Their symptoms were generally mild. None required hospitalization.
CHP's initial investigations showed that bacterial contamination could be the likely cause for the outbreak. Further investigation is in progress.
CHP reminded members of the public, especially food handlers, to observe good personal and environmental hygiene to prevent food-borne diseases. They are advised to take the following measures:
* Clean and cook food thoroughly before consumption, particularly crustacean and bivalve seafood such as shrimp, crab, oysters and clams;
* Wash hands before eating and after going to toilet;
* Handle raw and cooked food with separate utensils to prevent cross contamination;
* Keep raw and cooked food separately;
* Store food in refrigerator (at 4 degree Celsius or below) and adequately reheat leftover food before consumption; and
* Keep the environment clean.
Ends/Monday, January 16, 2006
Issued at HKT 20:00
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