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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a report of suspected food poisoning involving 25 people today (February 13).
Those affected, 13 men and 12 women aged 20 to 62, developed abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and fever about one to 50 hours after having lunch or dinner in a staff canteen in Fanling on February 10.
Six of them sought treatment from Prince of Wales Hospital and North District Hospital. Ten others consulted private doctors. Their symptoms were generally mild. None required hospitalisation.
The CHP's initial investigations showed that bacterial or viral contamination could be the likely cause for the outbreak. Further investigations are in progress.
The 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 crustaceans 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 degrees Celsius or below) and adequately reheat leftover food before consumption; and
* Keep the environment clean.
Ends/Monday, February 13, 2006
Issued at HKT 18:37
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