Update on cluster of Candida auris cases in Kowloon Hospital
************************************************************
Regarding an earlier announcement on Candida auris carrier cases, the spokesperson for Kowloon Hospital gave the following update today (April 11):
Following a contact tracing investigation, one more 89-year-old female patient in the medical convalescent ward and one more 81-year-old male patient in the rehabilitation ward were identified as carriers of Candida auris while not having signs of infection. The patients are now being treated under isolation and are in stable condition.
The hospital will continue the contact tracing investigation of close contacts of the patients in accordance with the prevailing guidelines. A series of enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted to prevent the spread of Candida auris:
- Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the ward concerned;
- Enhanced admission screening for patients and environmental screening procedures; and
- Application of stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene for staff and patients.
The hospital 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/Tuesday, April 11, 2023
Issued at HKT 18:25
Issued at HKT 18:25
NNNN