The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has been updated by the Ministry of Health (MOH) this (July 25) evening about the latest situation concerning reports of deaths among agricultural workers in Sichuan.
According to the MOH, as of July 24, a total of 80 people were affected and 19 of whom died.
Initial epidemiological and laboratory investigations in the Mainland suggested that the affected people were suffering from streptococcus suis infection related to slaughtering or handling of infected pigs.
The CHP is maintaining close communication with the MOH and would continue monitoring the situation closely.
To prevent streptococcus suis infection, the public are advised to always observe personal and environmental hygiene practices and avoid contact with pigs that are sick or dead from diseases and their excreta or body fluid. If contact with pigs or raw pork is necessary, one should:
* Use protective gloves;
* Wash hands after handling pig or raw pork;
* To clean and cover all wounds properly;
* Avoid injury while processing meat.
People with suspected symptoms should consult their doctors as soon as possible and report their relevant exposure histories.
End/Monday, July 25, 2005