Update on Candida auris cases in Princess Margaret Hospital

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     The spokesperson for Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) gave the following update today (October 25):
      
     Regarding the situation of Candida auris carrier cases, PMH has adopted a series of measures to enhance patient screening. Through the enhanced screening, six more patients (2 male and 4 female, aged 29 to 87) have been confirmed as Candida auris carriers while not having signs of infection. All patients are now being treated under isolation and in stable condition.
      
     In accordance with the prevailing guidelines, the hospital 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 CPR rapid test for early identification of virus carrier soon; and
     5. Apply designed patient use equipment to avoid cross infection.
      
     The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation of the patients. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.