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    The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (February 26) received a confirmed case of Chrysomya bezziana infestation and urged the public to guard against the disease.

Case details are as follow:

Age : 50

Sex : Female

Place of residence : Wan Chai

Date of onset : February 18, 2005

Symptoms : Fever, maggots were found in left lower limb ulcer

Present condition : Admitted to Ruttonjee Hospital on February 20 in stable condition

Travel history : No recent travel history

Cumulative total received by CHP in 2005 : 2

*imported case : 0

*local case : 2

The number of cases received by DH in recent years : 9 in 2003; 8 in 2004

    Chrysomya bezziana is an obligate parasite of mammals.  The site of infestation with the larvae is usually at superficial wounds and body orifices of debilitated persons.

    The larvae feed on the host's dead or living tissue.  Feeding activity of the larvae may cause serious tissue damage, resulting in loss of condition, injury to the skin, secondary invasion and death.

    Members of the public, especially staff of elderly homes, are advised to note the following measures:

* All wounds should be treated immediately.  Wound fluids and blood are known to be attractive to Chrysomya bezziana.  To avoid myiasis infestation, wounds should be cleaned and dressed properly;

* Fly infestation could be avoided by proofing measures, including installation of fly screening materials to human dwelling places, dressing of wounds and maintaining good ventilation;

* Observe good personal and environmental hygiene;

* Staff of elderly homes should ensure good environmental hygiene, be alert to inmates developing symptoms of the disease and arrange inmates feeling unwell to seek medical consultation promptly.

Ends/Saturday, February 26, 2005

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