XN000022-1997-03-10 — Page 5

"Public are strongly advised to cook food thoroughly before consumption."

The spokesman noted that this was the first time E.coli O157:H7 strain was detected in food sample since the Department incorporated the test into the food surveillance programme in 1994.

Further investigation found that the beef came from a cattle slaughtered in a local abattoir. It was believed that the contamination was an isolated incident.

Nonetheless, the Department had taken a number of measures to prevent cross

contamination.

"Upon advice, both the retailer and wholesaler of the beef have agreed to voluntarily surrender the related products and conduct a thorough disinfection and cleansing at their premises before sales resume," the spokesman said.

"Their staff have also been asked to observe strict personal and food hygiene in handling meat products.

"The Department of Health will increase sampling of food items under its food surveillance programme for O157:H7.

"The two municipal services departments will make extra efforts to ensure proper hygiene standards to be adopted in the slaughtering process."

The spokesman added that DH and the two municipal services departments had all along been delivering health education on food hygiene and personal hygiene as well as on how to prevent 0157:H7 infection to the public and food-handlers. These efforts will continue.

"The opportunity is also taken to remind the public to cook food thoroughly to prevent food borne disease," he said.

"Cooked and raw food items should be handled separately."

"Hands should be washed before handling food to prevent contamination by gastro-intestinal bacteria."

Public are welcome to use the Department's interactive voice and response system on "Hygiene Information For You", Tel No 2380 2580, for more information and preventive measures on food-borne diseases including E.coli O157:H7.

End