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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (April 30) investigating a case of necrotising fasciitis (NF) involving a woman aged 89.
The patient, with underlying illnesses, has developed left foot pain and swelling since April 25, and fever since April 27. She was admitted to Yan Chai Hospital (YCH) on April 27.
Her clinical diagnosis was left foot NF. She is receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit in serious condition.
The culture of the patient's wound swabs yielded Vibrio vulnificus (VV), a type of bacteria which can cause NF, upon preliminary laboratory testing by YCH.
The patient has no recent travel history. Investigations by the CHP are proceeding.
A spokesman for the CHP explained that NF is a serious bacterial infection of the soft tissue and fascia. It can destroy tissue and cause death within twelve to 24 hours after infection.
Members of the public are reminded to take heed of the following preventive measures:
* Avoid foot or leg contact with dirty water when visiting wet markets;
* 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 or other seafood.
Patients should seek medical advice promptly if relevant symptoms and signs of infection, such as increasing redness, pain and swelling as well as pus, develop.
The public may visit the CHP's page on VV infection (www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/24/3780.html) for more information.
Ends/Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Issued at HKT 18:10
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