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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (March 10) 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 case involved an 85-year-old man with underlying illnesses, who presented with fever, cough with sputum and shortness of breath on February 20. He was admitted to Caritas Medical Centre on February 24 and passed away on February 27. His clinical diagnoses were pneumonia and sepsis.
His blood sample subsequently tested positive for Hib upon laboratory testing by the CHP's Public Health Laboratory Services Branch.
The patient had no recent travel history and his home contacts remain asymptomatic. Investigations are ongoing.
Invasive Hib infection has been a statutory notifiable infectious disease since July 2008. This is the first case reported this year. Six cases and three cases (including one death) were reported in 2014 and 2013 respectively. No cases were reported in 2015.
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 the nose or throat secretions of a patient. If persistent fever, unusual changes in behaviour or other deteriorating conditions develop, or if in 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
* An 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/Thursday, March 10, 2016
Issued at HKT 17:01
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