DH updates case of Group A Streptococcal infection with necrotising fasciitis
*****************************************************************************
The case involves a 47-year-old male with a history of prolapsed intervertebral disc but no other underlying illness, who was diagnosed with Group A Streptococcal infection with necrotising fasciitis. Prior to the onset of the disease, he received acupuncture treatments from two registered Chinese medicine practitioners in Sheung Wan and Causeway Bay respectively, after sustaining an accidental sprain. He has no other wound or skin damage.
Laboratory results showed that an environmental sample, which was collected by the DH from the premises of the registered Chinese medicine practitioner in Causeway Bay last week and was subsequently detected with Group A Streptococcus, belonged to the same genetic sequencing as the patient's specimens. This suggests that the Group A Streptococcus found in the environment of the premises was related to the bacteria infecting the patient, and both came from the same source. Separately, the Chinese Medicine Council of Hong Kong is following up on the incident and the DH will provide necessary information and full support.
As for another registered Chinese medicine practitioner who provided acupuncture treatment to the patient, the premises was not open for business earlier because the registered Chinese medicine practitioner concerned had travelled outside Hong Kong. The premises resumed operation this morning. The DH staff went there and conducted a detailed review of the acupuncture procedures and infection control, and collected environmental specimens for testing. So far, no apparent irregularities in infection control have been found.
So far, the DH has not received any reports of adverse reactions from other patients receiving acupuncture treatments from the Chinese medicine practitioners concerned. The DH will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate actions.
Ends/Tuesday, May 6, 2025
Issued at HKT 20:15
Issued at HKT 20:15
NNNN