Cluster of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus cases in Caritas Medical Centre

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     The spokesperson for Caritas Medical Centre (CMC) made the following announcement today (February 22):

     A 10-year-old male resident of the Developmental Disabilities Unit of CMC developed symptoms of conjunctivitis on February 2 and was confirmed to be infected by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) which was detected in clinical specimen. In accordance with the prevailing infection control guidelines, the hospital has performed contact tracing. Two more male residents (aged nine and 10) of the same ward were confirmed to be MRSA carriers without any symptoms of infection. The three residents are currently under isolation with stable condition.

     Following the activation of the Emergency Response Level in public hospitals, the visiting arrangements for the ward have been suspended. The concerned ward has adopted the following enhanced infection control measures according to established guidelines:
 

1. Enhanced disinfection and cleaning of the ward concerned;
2. Enhanced resident and environmental screening procedures; and
3. Application of stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene for staff and residents.

 
     The hospital will closely monitor the situation of the ward concerned. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up.