CHP investigates imported case of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infection
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The case involves a 24-year-old male with good past health. He developed abdominal pain, fever, diarrhoea, blood and mucus in stool and headache since August 6. He attended a private hospital on August 9 and was admitted for treatment. His condition improved after treatment and was discharged on August 13. Throughout the hospitalisation period, his condition remained stable without any complications. His stool sample tested positive for STEC by the CHP's Public Health Laboratory Services Branch.
According to information provided by the patient, he travelled to Malaysia between August 1 and 8, part of which fell within the incubation period. During the trip, he had consumed high-risk food and beverages, including drinking unboiled tap water, and consuming pre-cut fruits and street foods. The CHP classified the case as an imported case. One of his five travel collaterals also developed diarrhoea. The CHP advised the travel collateral to seek medical attention as soon as possible with arrangement to test stool sample to confirm if there is any infection. The CHP's investigation is ongoing.
Over the past five years (2021 to 2025), the CHP has recorded one to six cases of STEC infection annually. The above case is the fourth case of STEC infection recorded in Hong Kong this year.
The incubation period of STEC infection generally ranges from three to four days. In general, STEC infections are mostly associated with the consumption of contaminated food or water, such as raw or undercooked meat products, contaminated fruits and vegetables, and unpasteurised dairy products. Direct person-to-person transmission through the faecal-oral route can also occur. Waterborne transmissions have been reported, both from contaminated drinking water and from recreational waters. The public is advised to observe good personal and food hygiene.
Members of the public may refer to the CHP's webpage for more information about STEC.
Ends/Friday, August 21, 2026
Issued at HKT 20:25
Issued at HKT 20:25
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