DH’s two dental clinics closed for disinfection

     The Department of Health (DH) today (February 21) said its Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices Dental Clinic and Yau Ma Tei Orthodontic Clinic had to be closed today for thorough cleaning and disinfection after two dental officers tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus through rapid antigen testing. Affected clients have been contacted to reschedule their service appointments.

     The dental officer at Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices Dental Clinic last performed duties on February 18. She developed symptoms yesterday (February 20) and tested positive through rapid antigen testing on the same day. She wore appropriate personal protective equipment while performing duties.
      
     The dental officer at Yau Ma Tei Orthodontic Clinic last performed duties on February 18. She developed symptoms yesterday and tested negative through rapid antigen testing on the same day. She underwent rapid antigen testing again today and the result was positive. She wore appropriate personal protective equipment while performing duties.
      
     The DH's Centre for Health Protection has initiated an epidemiological investigation on the relevant cases and relevant contact tracing is ongoing. In view of the epidemic situation, the DH's dental clinics have stepped up infection control measures, including temperature screening for all visitors before clinic entry, conducting health declarations and rescheduling the appointments of patients with a higher transmission risk (e.g. persons subject to compulsory testing). The Dental Services have been strictly implementing various disease prevention measures during the epidemic, which include providing employees with masks and other protective equipment, and stepping up the cleaning and sanitising measures in the clinics. All staff members are wearing masks at work and practising hand hygiene at all times. The DH is highly concerned about the COVID-19 situation and has reminded all staff again to maintain personal hygiene and be vigilant at all times. If feeling unwell, they should seek medical attention immediately.