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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a case of necrotising fasciitis (flesh-eating disease) involving a 74-year-old man with underlying illness.
The patient lives in Southern District. He presented with fever and right hand swelling on July 19. He was admitted to Queen Mary Hospital on the same day and was diagnosed as having necrotising fasciitis. Right hand amputation was also performed on July 19.
The patient is now receiving intensive care and is in stable condition. Laboratory tests on the wound tissue of his right hand yielded Vibrio vulnificus, a type of bacteria causing necrotising fasciitis.
The CHP's investigation revealed that the patient's right hand had been injured by a crab at home on July 18. The crab was brought by his friend and he did not visit wet market during the incubation period. His home contact was asymptomatic. Investigation continues.
A CHP spokesman said necrotising fasciitis is a serious bacterial infection of the soft tissue and fascia. It can destroy tissue and cause death within 12 to 24 hours after infection.
People are reminded to adopt the following preventive measures:
* Avoid exposure of open wounds or broken skin to seawater or salty water;
* Wounds should be thoroughly cleaned and properly covered; and
* Wear thick rubber gloves when handling raw shellfish.
Patients should seek medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms and signs of infection such as increasing redness, pain and swelling.
Ends/Monday, July 23, 2012
Issued at HKT 17:42
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