2008-07-23
The CHP of DH today (July 23) reminded members of the public to observe good personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent intestinal infection caused by E. Coli O157:H7 bacteria.
The appeal came after the confirmation by laboratory test today of a case involving a 10-month-old girl living in Kowloon City. This is the second case of E. Coli O157:H7 infection reported to the CHP this year.
CHP's investigations revealed that the child developed fever, vomiting and diarrhea on July 16. She was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital on the same day and is now in stable condition.
She had no travel history during the incubation period. Her parents did not show any symptom of intestinal infection while her brother and grandmother developed diarrhea earlier and had recovered.
Further investigation by CHP is on-going.
A CHP spokesman said that in general E. coli O157:H7 could be contracted through consumption of undercooked contaminated food or contaminated water, or transmitted from person to person through the faecal-oral route.
"However, the bacteria can be killed at a cooking temperature of around 75 degrees Celsius for two to three minutes," he added.
"Members of the public are advised to cook food thoroughly. The core temperature of food should reach 75 degrees Celsius for two to three minutes."
"Moreover, the public should observe good personal and environmental hygiene to avoid person-to-person transmission of the bacteria through faecal-oral route. They are advised to wash hands thoroughly particularly before handling food; before eating; after visiting toilet and after changing diapers for their babies," the spokesman said.
There was one case in 2007 and 2006 respectively. No case was recorded in 2005 and 2004.
Members of the public may visit CHP website at http://www.chp.gov.hk to obtain more information on the disease.
Ends/Wednesday, July 23, 2008