18th December 2024 – (Zhanjiang) The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has initiated an investigation into a food poisoning cluster that has affected 15 individuals who recently returned from a group tour in Guangdong, China. The incident has raised alarms about food safety and hygiene, prompting health officials to remind the public of the importance of maintaining personal and environmental hygiene, especially when travelling abroad.
The affected group, comprising five males and ten females aged between 57 and 94, began experiencing symptoms including abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and fever after dining at two restaurants in Zhanjiang during their trip from 13th to 15th December. The CHP confirmed that fourteen of the individuals sought medical treatment either while on the Mainland or after returning to Hong Kong. Among them, one person required hospitalisation but has since been discharged following treatment.
Initial inquiries by the CHP have indicated that the group consumed a variety of seafood dishes, including oysters, abalone, shrimp, sea cucumber, and fish. Preliminary assessments suggest that the food poisoning may have been caused by norovirus or Vibrio parahaemolyticus, both of which are known to be associated with seafood consumption and can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms.
In response to the outbreak, the CHP has reached out to Mainland health authorities, sharing the details of the cases to facilitate further investigations. They are also appealing to other participants from the three-day tour organised by E King Travel (International) Limited to come forward for follow-up and medical surveillance. Travellers who participated in the tour to Zhanjiang, Taishan, and Jiangmen between 13th and 15th December are encouraged to contact the CHP hotline at 2125 2670. The hotline will be operational from 19th December to 24th December, between 9am and 5pm on weekdays.
Health officials are urging anyone who experiences symptoms related to foodborne illness—such as fever, gastrointestinal distress, or general malaise—to seek immediate medical attention. The CHP’s proactive approach aims to mitigate the risk of further infections and ensure that those affected receive the necessary care.
