************************************************************
The Department of Health (DH) is today (March 7) closely monitoring an additional fatal case due to infection with novel coronavirus involving a 69-year-old man reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) by the Ministry of Health (MoH) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
The patient was hospitalised on February 10 and subsequently passed away on February 19. Preliminary investigation by the MoH of the KSA revealed that he had no contact with previously reported cases of novel coronavirus infection. He had no recent travel history.
This latest case brings the global total number of confirmed cases of Severe Respiratory Disease associated with Novel Coronavirus to 14 (including eight deaths), of which seven are from the KSA (including five deaths).
"In view of the latest development, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the DH will seek more information on this case from the WHO and relevant health authorities. The CHP will stay vigilant and continue to work closely with the WHO and other overseas health authorities to monitor the latest development of this novel infectious disease," a DH spokesman said.
Locally, the CHP will continue its surveillance mechanism with public and private hospitals, practising doctors and the airport for any suspected cases of severe respiratory disease associated with novel coronavirus.
"No human infection with this virus has so far been identified in Hong Kong," the spokesman stressed.
Travellers returning from novel coronavirus-affected countries with respiratory symptoms are advised to wear face masks, seek medical attention and reveal their travel history to doctors.
The spokesman reminded members of the public to take heed of personal hygiene, especially washing hands:
* Wash hands before touching the eyes, nose and mouth;
* Wash hands before eating or handling food;
* Wash hands after using a toilet;
* Wash hands after sneezing or coughing and cleaning the nose; and
* Avoid direct contact with animals, birds or poultry.
The public may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/460/19899.html) for more information on personal hygiene.
Ends/Thursday, March 7, 2013
Issued at HKT 12:26
NNNN
