CHP investigates suspected food poisoning cluster
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (September 10) investigating a suspected food poisoning cluster affecting 11 tourists of two inbound tour groups comprising 61 tourists from the Mainland. The CHP reminded the public to maintain personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent foodborne diseases.
The cluster involved eight males and three females aged between 55 and 68, who developed abdominal pain, diarrheoa, nausea, vomiting and fever after having lunch and dinner at two restaurants in To Kwa Wan on September 9.
All affected persons sought medical advice. None of them required hospitalisation. All patients are in stable condition.
Initial investigations by the CHP revealed that the affected persons had consumed common food. The personnel from the CHP and the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department have conducted an inspection at the restaurant where the affected persons had dinner, took food sample for laboratory testing. The CFS's personnel also instructed the concerned premise to suspend operation with immediate effect, carry out cleaning and disinfection of the premises, and improve food preparation process and food hygiene. The officers do not rule out that the causes of food poisoning include cross-contamination of food, premature preparation of food and failure to reheat thoroughly. The personnel from the CFS will conduct inspection at the restaurant where the affected persons had lunch. The CHP and CFS's investigations are ongoing.
The CHP has contacted with the Travel Industry Authority and the travel agencies. Preliminary information shows that no other tourists have been affected. The CHP will maintain liaison with relevant parties and continue to monitor the situations of relevant tourists.
To prevent foodborne diseases, members of the public are reminded to maintain personal, food and environmental hygiene at all times. When dining out:
Source: AI-generated images
New York ETO and Chocolate Rain crossover to promote Hong Kong-United States cultural exchange
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York (HKETONY), proudly hosted the "Hong Kong Meets America - Pop Art Exhibition" at the American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on October 11 to 13 (New Jersey time). This vibrant event successfully promoted cultural exchange between Hong Kong and the United States (US), drawing in art lovers and families alike.
Curated by the beloved Hong Kong creative brand Chocolate Rain, the exhibition showcased a dazzling array of exhibits featuring iconic landmarks and culinary delights from both Hong Kong and New York. Visitors enjoyed giant inflatables of Hong Kong's signature pineapple bun with butter, egg tarts, fish balls, and milk tea, alongside whimsical 3D figurines of New York's Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and classic yellow cabs.
At the opening ceremony on October 12, the Director of the HKETONY, Ms Maisie Ho, spoke about the exhibition's unique blend of tradition and contemporary aesthetics.
"The exhibition's title, 'Hong Kong Meets America' truly reflects our mission to celebrate the colorful cultural exchange between Hong Kong and the US. The American Dream Mall has transformed to an immersive showcase of iconic landmarks and culinary delights from both sides," she said.
Ms Ho also highlighted the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government's commitment to advancing the city's arts, cultural, and creative industries, with the aim of positioning Hong Kong as an East-meets-West hub for international cultural exchange.
She also took the opportunity to invite audience to visit Hong Kong and experience its dynamic metropolitan charm, rich cultural heritage, and a full calendar of events year-round.
"In the first eight months of this year alone, nearly 30 million visitors explored our dynamic city. The colorful exhibits you see here are just a glimpse of what awaits you in Hong Kong. We warmly invite you to experience its lively metropolitan charm, rich cultural heritage, and a calendar filled with exciting events throughout the year," she added.
The exhibition not only featured stunning art installations but also offered a variety of engaging activities, including seven DIY workshops conducted by the founder of Chocolate Rain, Prudence Mak, and her team over the three days. Participants had the opportunity to unleash their creativity and take home complimentary Hong Kong Meets America-themed souvenirs.
New York ETO and Chocolate Rain crossover to promote Hong Kong-United States cultural exchange Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
New York ETO and Chocolate Rain crossover to promote Hong Kong-United States cultural exchange Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
New York ETO and Chocolate Rain crossover to promote Hong Kong-United States cultural exchange Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
New York ETO and Chocolate Rain crossover to promote Hong Kong-United States cultural exchange Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
New York ETO and Chocolate Rain crossover to promote Hong Kong-United States cultural exchange Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
New York ETO and Chocolate Rain crossover to promote Hong Kong-United States cultural exchange Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
New York ETO and Chocolate Rain crossover to promote Hong Kong-United States cultural exchange Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
New York ETO and Chocolate Rain crossover to promote Hong Kong-United States cultural exchange Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases