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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 22) investigating a report of suspected food poisoning involving 12 people.
Initial investigations revealed that they developed abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea and fever about 26 to 54 hours after having food bought from a mobile hawker in Lau Fau Shan on February 19.
The affected are five males and seven females aged between 5 and 44. One of them sought treatment from Queen Mary Hospital. Six others consulted private doctors. Their symptoms were generally mild. None required hospitalisation.
CHP's initial investigations showed that viral contamination could be the likely cause for the outbreak. Further investigation is in progress.
CHP reminded people, 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/Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Issued at HKT 15:40
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