Cluster of Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae cases in Kowloon Hospital

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     The spokesperson for Kowloon Hospital made the following announcement today (August 25):
     
     Nine female patients (aged 25 to 86) of an extended care ward have been confirmed as being carriers of Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae since August 20. A patient had been discharged earlier, and the remaining eight patients are being treated under isolation and in stable condition.
 
     The hospital infection control team has followed up with the department concerned and the Centre for Health Protection (CHP). The following enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted in the ward:
 

1. Enhanced patient and environmental screening procedures;
2. Continued application of stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene for staff and patients; and
3. Enhanced cleaning and disinfection of the environment and equipment of the ward.

     The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation in the ward concerned. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the CHP for necessary follow-up.