CHP investigates outbreak of acute gastroenteritis in kindergarten in Mid-levels
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The outbreak involves 10 students, comprising seven boys and three girls aged 3 to 6, as well as 10 staff members. They have developed vomiting and diarrhoea since February 26. Among them, six students sought medical attention and none required hospitalisation. Separately, two staff members sought medical attention and one was discharged upon hospitalisation. All affected persons have been in stable condition.
Officers of the CHP have conducted a site visit and provided health advice to the staff of the kindergarten concerning proper and thorough disinfection, disposal of vomitus, and personal and environmental hygiene. The kindergarten has been put under medical surveillance.
The CHP's investigations are ongoing.
A spokesman for the CHP advised members of the public to take heed of the following preventive measures against gastroenteritis:
- Ensure proper personal hygiene;
- Wash hands thoroughly before handling food and eating, after using the toilet or after changing diapers;
- Wear gloves when disposing of vomitus or faecal matter, and wash hands afterwards;
- Clean and disinfect contaminated areas or items promptly and thoroughly with diluted household bleach (by adding one part of bleach containing 5.25 per cent sodium hypochlorite to 49 parts of water). Wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
- Maintain good indoor ventilation;
- Pay attention to food hygiene;
- Use separate utensils to handle raw and cooked food;
- Avoid food that is not thoroughly cooked;
- Drink boiled water; and
- Do not patronise unlicensed food premises and food stalls.
The public may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Health Education Hotline (2833 0111) for more information.
Ends/Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Issued at HKT 18:14
Issued at HKT 18:14
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