The Department of Health has confirmed a gastroenteritis outbreak in two places affecting 15 children.

The six students of Little Flowers School, Sha Tin, and nine children of Heep Hong Society Cheung Sha Wan Centre, Sham Shui Po, all suffered vomiting, fever and diarrhoea. Test results are pending.

Meanwhile, the Pokfulam Skill Centre, PLK Camoes Tan Siu Lin Primary School, the Church of Christ in China Kei Tsun Primary School and Quarry Bay Primary School have been removed from the outbreak list.

The department's 2961 8966 hotline has received 282 requests for information on the disease and preventive measures.

* Wash hands thoroughly before handling food and eating, and after using the toilet;

* wear gloves when disposing of vomit and faeces and wash hands afterwards;

* clean and disinfect contaminated areas and items promptly and thoroughly with household bleach diluted in a ratio of 1 to 49 units of water;

* maintain good indoor ventilation; and,

* ensure food, particularly seafood and shellfish, is cooked thoroughly.

Any students or workers suffering from viral gastroenteritis should stay home until they recover.

Institutions are reminded to watch out for symptoms of viral gastroenteritis and report any suspected outbreaks to the department.