Health authorities are investigating a food poisoning incident at Galaxy Macau after six members of a Hong Kong tour group fell ill earlier this month.
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of Hong Kong’s Department of Health said the outbreak affected two men and four women, who developed abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting between 14 and 40 hours after eating at buffet restaurant Festiva on 13 August. Three of those people sought further medical assistance upon returning to Hong Kong, although none required hospitalization. One patient tested positive to Vibrio parahaemolyticus – a gastrointestinal illness caused by bacteria.
The CHP has referred the incident to the Macau Health Bureau (known by its Portuguese acronym SSM), for further investigation.
In a statement to Inside Asian Gaming, Galaxy said, “To ensure a safe and comfortable environment and services for guests, the restaurant will fully cooperate with the relevant authorities on the investigation and will continue to implement strict and professional food safety, hygiene handling and supervision procedures. Since the incident is being reviewed by the relevant authorities, Galaxy Entertainment Group has no further comments to make at this stage.”
The (CHP) has urged the public to maintain personal hygiene levels when dining out and to be careful what they eat, particularly in regard to raw food and seafood.
A CHP spokesman said, “Investigations are ongoing. We are maintaining close liaison with the travel agent concerned and have informed the health authority of Macau for follow-up.”
