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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (November 13) investigating a fatal case of Group A Streptococcus infection involving a 7-year-old boy.
The patient with good past health had presented with symptoms of fever and chills since November 9. Medical consultation from a private doctor was sought the following day (November 10) and he was admitted to Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital on November 11 after repeated vomiting and with blood streak and petechial rash found over his abdomen. His condition rapidly deteriorated upon admission and he passed away on the same day.
The laboratory test on his blood culture confirmed Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A). The clinical diagnosis was Group A Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.
The patient had no recent travel history and his home contacts were asymptomatic.
The CHP's investigation into the case is proceeding.
Ends/Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Issued at HKT 17:21
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