Antibiotics pose risk in gastro cases

Cheng Wong

Hongkongers are reminded not to take antibiotics for gastroenteritis, a family doctor said, amid a recent rise in food poisoning cases.

Lam Wing-wo, who sits in the Scientific Committee on Vaccine Preventable Diseases, noted that antibiotics for gastroenteritis caused by Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli may kill the bacteria but can also release more potent toxins.

He said antibiotics would significantly worsen the condition and increase the risk of developing hemolytic uremic syndrome by 10 to 18 times. The syndrome is a group of blood disorders and initial symptoms include bloody diarrhea, vomiting and fever. Kidney problems and low platelets then occur as the diarrhea escalates.

Lam said studies indicate antibiotics are generally ineffective for treating STEC infections and they are usually not prescribed for gastroenteritis, except in special cases following testing.

There has been a rise in acute gastroenteritis cases due to food poisoning in recent months, with Lam saying norovirus is particularly severe during the winter and can lead to outbreaks, especially from eating hot pot or buffet.

He said pathogens causing acute gastroenteritis include viruses and bacteria such as E coli, Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus, with the first often linked to undercooked meat or contaminated salad.

Lam advised people not to be overly concerned but to monitor for dehydration and bloody stools and seek prompt medical help.

High-risk individuals - such as the elderly, children and those with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems - should stay hydrated, rest and eat bland food while avoiding dairy and greasy items if infected with gastroenteritis.

"If symptoms persist, such as high fever, severe stomachache or bloody stools, it is essential to go to the hospital," he said.