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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (June 6) investigating a case of invasive Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infection, and hence urged the public to maintain good personal hygiene, especially hand hygiene.
The female patient aged 92, with underlying illnesses, has presented with fever, abdominal pain and tea-coloured urine since May 28 and was admitted to Queen Mary Hospital (QMH) on May 31 for management. Her clinical diagnosis was biliary sepsis and she is now in stable condition.
The patient's blood specimen grew Hib upon preliminary laboratory testing by QMH.
She has no recent travel history and her home contacts have remained asymptomatic so far. The CHP's investigation is continuing.
Invasive Hib infection has been a statutory notifiable infectious disease since July 2008. This is the second case this year. Three cases (including one death) and one case were reported in 2013 and 2012 respectively.
Invasive Hib infection commonly presents clinically as infection of membranes covering the brain (meningitis), often accompanied by bacteria entering the bloodstream. It may also affect other parts of the body, such as the lungs, the upper part of the throat (epiglottis), joints and bones. Prompt antibiotic treatment is necessary.
"Hib infection can be spread by contact with nose or throat secretions of a patient. If persistent fever, unusual changes in behaviour and deteriorating conditions develop, or in cases of doubt, seek medical attention immediately," a spokesman for the CHP said.
Members of the public are advised to observe personal hygiene and take heed of the preventive measures below:
* Maintain hand hygiene and clean hands properly;
* Wash hands when they are soiled with respiratory secretions, such as after sneezing or coughing;
* Cover the nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal discharge and sputum properly;
* Do not share eating and drinking utensils, and wash them thoroughly after use;
* Avoid going to crowded places if not feeling well; and
* Effective vaccine against Hib is available. For personal protection, seek advice from a health-care professional.
The public may visit the CHP's invasive Hib page (www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/24/8870.html) for more information.
Ends/Friday, June 6, 2014
Issued at HKT 12:16
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