2005-07-14
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (July 14) reminded members of the public to be on guard against cholera and food-borne infection following the confirmation of a cholera case.
Case details are as follows:
Age: 40
Sex: Female
Date of onset: July 7
Symptoms: diaorrhea, nausea and vomiting
Present condition: Admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on July 13. Now in stable condition.
Travel history: No recent travel history.
Vibrio cholerae: Vibrio cholerae 01 Ogawa
Cumulative total of cholera cases in 2005: 2
Imported: 0
Local: 1
Pending classification: 1
A CHP spokesman said, "The best way to prevent cholera and food-borne diseases is to observe good personal, food and environmental hygiene at all times."
The public is reminded to:
- Clean and cook seafood thoroughly before eating, particularly crustaceans and bivalves such as shrimp, crab, oysters and clams;
- Wash hands before eating and after going to the 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 thoroughly reheat leftover food before eating;
- Keep the environment clean.
When travelling outside Hong Kong:
- Always wash hands before eating and after going to the toilet;
- Eat only thoroughly cooked food and food from sealed packs or cans;
- Avoid cold dishes such as salad and ice-cream;
- Drink only boiled water, canned or bottled drinks, pasteurised milk or dairy products;
- Do not add ice to drinks and do not drink fresh fruit juice that has been prepared beforehand;
- Do not patronise illegal food hawkers; and
- Wash fruit thoroughly before eating and do not eat fruit that has already been peeled or cut open.
Ends/Thursday, July 14, 2005