The Department of Health (DH) today (February 11) said that two staff members who work at its Madam Yung Fung Shee Maternal and Child Health Centre (MCHC) in Yuen Long have tested preliminarily positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus while another staff member also tested preliminarily positive by rapid antigen test.

     The two staff members that tested preliminarily positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus include a clerk and a workman who are responsible for general administrative and support duties. The staff member who tested preliminarily positive by rapid antigen test is a nurse who is responsible for interviewing clients and taking blood for pregnant women. They last performed duties on February 9 and developed symptoms after work on the same day. They sought medical attention and underwent testing on the following day.

     All three staff members wore appropriate personal protective equipment while performing duties. The Centre for Health Protection's epidemiological investigation is ongoing and some staff members at the MCHC have been identified as close contacts. The MCHC was closed this afternoon for thorough cleaning and disinfection. Affected clients have been contacted to reschedule their service appointments. Owing to manpower issues, the MCHC will only provide essential services starting tomorrow (February 12).​  The DH will contact affected clients to reschedule their service appointments and will resume normal operation as soon as possible in consideration of the latest situation.

     ​In view of the current epidemic situation, MCHCs have stepped up infection control measures, including temperature screening before clinic entry and limiting the number of accompanying carers. At present, all MCHC staff members are wearing masks at work and practising hand hygiene at all times. The DH is highly concerned about the COVID-19 situation and has reminded all staff again to maintain personal hygiene and remain vigilant at all times. If feeling unwell, they should seek medical attention immediately.

Ends/Friday, February 11, 2022
Issued at HKT 20:40

NNNN