Update on cluster of Respiratory Syncytial Virus infection cases in Tuen Mun Hospital
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The spokesman for Tuen Mun Hospital (TMH) made the following update today (March 20) regarding a clustering of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection in a Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU):
As a precautionary measure, the hospital has arranged viral tests for the babies in the ward again today. One more 30-day-old baby tested positive for RSV with stable condition. Regarding the six babies who were infected with RSV earlier, the condition of the 11-day baby boy remains critical, while the condition for the 5-month-old baby girl is still serious. The remaining four babies are in stable condition. They are hospitalised under isolation. The hospital will closely monitor the conditions of the patients in the ward and provide appropriate treatment.
In addition, three staff members in the ward also tested positive for RSV and were on sick leave currently.
The TMH is very concerned about the clustering of infection cases. The hospital will continue to strengthen the implementation of infection control measures and closely monitor the conditions of the patients in the ward while maintaining close contact with the patients' families providing necessary support.
The relevant ward has implemented the following enhanced infection control measures:
1. Enhanced cleaning and disinfection of the ward concerned, and hand hygiene for staff and visitors;
2. Application of stringent contact and droplet precautions; and
3. Ensure dedicated patient-care equipment was provided to individual patients to prevent cross infection.
The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health for necessary follow-up.
Ends/Monday, March 20, 2023
Issued at HKT 19:31
Issued at HKT 19:31
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