2006-06-23
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating today (June 23) a report of suspected food poisoning involving 11 people.
The affected people, comprising one man and 10 women aged between 23 and 42, developed diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting , nausea and fever about 10 to 43 hours after having lunch in a restaurant in Cheung Sha Wan on June 21.
Their symptoms were generally mild. Two of them sought medical treatment from private doctors and none required hospitalization.
CHP's initial investigations showed that bacteria could be the likely cause for the outbreak. Further investigation is in progress.
CHP reminded members of the public, especially food handlers, to observe good personal and environmental hygiene to prevent food-borne diseases. They are advised to take the following measures:
- Clean and cook food thoroughly before consumption, particularly crustacean and bivalve seafood such as shrimp, crab, oysters and clams;
- Wash hands before eating and after going to 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 degree Celsius or below) and adequately reheat leftover food before consumption; and
- Keep the environment clean.
End/Friday, June 23, 2006