Update on cluster of Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae cases at Queen Elizabeth Hospital

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

　　Regarding an earlier announcement on a cluster of patients confirmed to have Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) in a male medical ward, the spokesperson for Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) gave the following update today (May 16):
 
　　In accordance with the prevailing infection control guidelines, the hospital has stepped up the extent of active surveillance and contact investigation. Four more male patients (aged 51 to 82) have been confirmed to be asymptomatic carriers of CPE. Two hospitalised patients are under isolation and are in a stable condition, while other two patients have already been discharged.
 
　　Infection control measures have been intensified according to the established guidelines in the wards. All other patients in the wards concerned 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.