Update on Candida auris cases in Kowloon West Cluster

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     The spokesperson for Kowloon West Cluster (KWC) made the following announcement today (November 25):
 
     KWC has adopted measures to enhance patient screening in response to the situation of Candida auris carrier cases. A 78-year-old male patient was admitted to a male medical ward of Yan Chai Hospital on November 18 and underwent Candida auris admission screening. He was tested positive for Candida auris while not having signs of infection. The patient has been discharged.

     Since the patient is an old-age home resident, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) and the Community Nursing Services have been informed of the case for follow-up action. According to the contact tracing, one more 84-year-old male patient in the same ward was confirmed as a carrier of Candida auris while not having signs of infection. The patient is now being treated under isolation and in stable condition.
 
     In addition, during the enhanced screening, one more 64-year-old female patient of a Neurosurgery ward in Princess Margaret Hospital was confirmed as Candida auris carrier while not having signs of infection. The patient is now being treated under isolation and in critical condition due to her underlying illness.
 
     In accordance with the prevailing guidelines, KWC will continue the contact tracing for the patients. A series of enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted to prevent the spreading of Candida auris:
 
     1. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the wards concerned;
     2. Enhanced admission screening for patients and environmental screening procedures;
     3. Application of stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene for staff and patients;
     4. Introduction of PCR rapid test for early identification of carrier; and
     5. Application of designated equipment for patient use to avoid cross infection.
 
     KWC will continue to closely monitor the situation of the patients. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the CHP for necessary follow-up.