Cluster of Candida auris cases in Caritas Medical Centre
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson for Caritas Medical Centre (CMC) made the following announcement today (September 8):
An 89-year-old female patient in a medical rehabilitation ward of CMC was confirmed of Candida auris infection on September 6. She was transferred to Princess Margaret Hospital for isolation treatment with stable condition.
In accordance with the prevailing guidelines, the hospital is conducting the contact tracing. Four female patients (aged 75 to 86) were identified as Candida auris carriers while not having signs of infection. They are now being treated under isolation and in stable condition.
A series of enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted to prevent the spreading of Candida auris:
1. Special visiting has been suspended;
2. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the wards concerned;
3. Enhanced admission screening for patients and environmental screening; and
4. Application of stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene for staff and patients.
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.
