The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     Regarding the earlier announcements on Candida auris carrier cases, the spokesperson for Kowloon West Cluster (KWC) gave the following update on contact tracing in various hospitals today (December 16):

     North Lantau Hospital identified one more 93-year-old female patient as being a Candida auris carrier while not having signs of infection. The patient passed away on December 13 due to her underlying illness.

     Princess Margaret Hospital identified one more 81-year-old female patient as being a Candida auris carrier while not having signs of infection. The patient is now being treated under isolation with stable condition.

     In accordance with the prevailing guidelines, KWC will continue contact tracing for the patients. A series of enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted to prevent the spread of Candida auris:
 

1. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the wards concerned;
2. Enhanced admission screening for patients and environmental screening procedures;
3. Application of stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene for staff and patients;
4. Introduction of PCR rapid testing for early identification of carriers; and
5. Application of designated equipment for patient use to avoid cross-infection.
    

     KWC will continue to closely monitor the situation of the patients. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.

Ends/Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Issued at HKT 19:00

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