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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (August 11) investigating a severe case of Group A Streptococcal infection involving a 62-year-old woman with chronic illness.
The patient slipped and fell at home and sustained injury to her right hand on August 3. Her right hand developed redness and swelling the next day. She was admitted to Tseung Kwan O Hospital on August 6 with persistent symptoms. Her condition deteriorated after admission with development of hypotension. She was then transferred to the Intensive Care Unit and is in serious condition.
Laboratory testing on the wound swab grew Streptococcus pyogenes. The clinical diagnosis was severe Group A Streptococcal infection with toxic shock syndrome.
The patient had no recent travel history. Her home contact was asymptomatic.
The CHP's investigation is continuing.
Ends/Thursday, August 11, 2011
Issued at HKT 19:01
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