Update on cluster of Candida auris cases in Kowloon Central Cluster
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Regarding an earlier announcement on Candida auris carrier cases, the spokesperson for the Kowloon Central Cluster gave the following update today (March 30):
Following a contact tracing investigation, one more 69-year-old male patient in the medicine and geriatrics ward of Hong Kong Buddhist Hospital was confirmed to carry Candida auris without signs of infection. The patient is now being treated in isolation and is in stable condition.
In addition, one more 58-year-old male patient in the tuberculosis and chest ward of TWGHs Wong Tai Sin Hospital was identified as a carrier of Candida auris without signs of infection after a contact tracing investigation. The patient has passed away earlier due to his underlying disease.
The hospitals will continue the following enhanced infection control measures in accordance with the prevailing guidelines to prevent the spread of Candida auris:
1. Enhanced admission screening for patients and environmental screening procedures;
2. Applied stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene of staff and patients; and
3. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the wards concerned.
The hospitals will closely monitor the situation of the wards concerned. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.
Ends/Thursday, March 30, 2023
Issued at HKT 19:05
Issued at HKT 19:05
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