Cluster of Rhinovirus cases in Siu Lam Hospital

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     The spokesperson for New Territories West Cluster made the following announcement today (January 1):
 
     Three patients (aged 21 to 47) in a male ward for severe intellectual disability at Siu Lam Hospital presented with respiratory symptoms since December 29. Appropriate viral tests had been arranged for the patients and their test results were positive to Rhinovirus. The patients are being treated under isolation with stable condition.
 
     On the other hand, regarding the earlier announcement by Castle Peak Hospital on a cluster of patients infected with Rhinovirus in a female adult psychiatric ward, one more 46-year-old patient in the ward had presented with respiratory symptoms. Appropriate viral tests had been arranged for the patient. The patient is being treated under isolation with stable condition.
 
     Admission to the concerned wards in the two hospitals has been suspended and restricted visiting has been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the wards are under close surveillance.
 
     The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up.