Update on cluster of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus cases in Caritas Medical Centre

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     Regarding an earlier announcement on a cluster of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) cases in a ward of the Developmental Disabilities Unit, the spokesperson for Caritas Medical Centre gave the following update today (October 9):
 
     In accordance with prevailing infection control guidelines, the hospital has conducted a contact tracing investigation. One more 13-year-old paediatric male patient of the same ward was confirmed to be an MRSA carrier without any symptoms of infection. The patient is in stable condition and is being treated in isolation.
 
     Enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted according to prevailing guidelines. Contact precautions, hand hygiene, cleaning and disinfection of the environment and equipment have also been strengthened. The ward concerned has also suspended visiting arrangements.
 
     The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation in the ward concerned. The case has been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for follow-up.