Update on Candida auris cases in Kowloon West Cluster

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     Regarding an earlier announcement on Candida auris carrier cases in Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH), the spokesperson for Kowloon West Cluster (KWC) gave the following update today (July 9):
     
     According to the contact tracing result, one more 54-year-old male patient who had stayed in the same Medicine and Geriatrics ward in PMH has been confirmed as carrying Candida auris while not having signs of infection. The patient was transferred to North Lantau Hospital (NLTH) for further care earlier. He is being treated under isolation and is in stable condition. In accordance with the prevailing guidelines, NLTH has continued contact tracing for the patient. The following enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted:
     

1. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the wards concerned;
2. Enhanced patient and environmental screening procedures; and
3. Application of stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene for staff and patients.

      
     KWC will continue to closely monitor the situation of the patients. The case has been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.