Management of an incident of failed sterilization of surgical instruments in a dental clinic in Hong Kong.

Background/purpose: We describe an investigation of an incident of failed sterilization procedure in a dental clinic. We aim to illustrate the principles in performing such investigations and to highlight some of the important checkpoints in sterilization procedures.

Methods: In response to this incident, proper sterilization of all equipment was performed immediately.

Extensive contact tracing and screening to control the spread of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium ST414 in Hong Kong.

Background: Proactive infection control management is crucial in preventing the introduction of multiple drug resistant organisms in the healthcare setting. In Hong Kong, where vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) endemicity is not yet established, contact tracing and screening, together with other infection control measures are essential in limiting intra- and inter-hospital transmission. The objective of this study was to illustrate the control measures used to eradicate a VRE outbreak in a hospital network in Hong Kong.