Hong Kong doctor killed by suspected E coli infection hailed as ‘good role model’

The deceased doctor who was part of a suspected Shiga toxin-producing E coli cluster at a Hong Kong public hospital has been described as “a good role model” for colleagues and “willing to go the extra mile” to help patients, according to those who knew him.

The doctor, whose name has not been revealed by authorities, died last Friday, a day after he was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital for signs of severe infection, low blood oxygen levels and high fever. He also had symptoms of diarrhoea.

The deceased, who was in his thirties, was among three oncologists from the hospital in Kwai Chung who fell ill. The other two doctors had milder symptoms and at least one has been discharged.

A memorial corner for the late doctor was set up at Princess Margaret Hospital on Tuesday and will be maintained until Sunday.

Requesting anonymity, people who knew the doctor spoke highly of him.

“He was a good role model to our new doctors, and he often shared his knowledge during his spare time with young staff,” a former colleague said. “He was a really good doctor.”

The medical professional described the death of the doctor as a “huge loss” to all of them.