Hong Kong - Covid-19 cases - 4,902 cases, 99 deaths?

[tetano]

Coronavirus: third wave fears escalate in Hong Kong as city records 14 new Covid-19 cases, 9 local with no recent travel history




Fears of a third wave ofcoronavirus infections
in Hong Kong escalated on Tuesday when nine of 14 newly confirmed cases were found to be local and without recent travel history, as the government introduced compulsory testing for some of those exempt from quarantine.


“Since last weekend, the local epidemic situation has changed quickly. The situation is very critical,” Dr Wong Ka-hing, controller of the Centre for Health Protection, told a press briefing on Tuesday.

https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3092174/coronavirus-third-wave-fears-escalate-hong-kong?utm_content=article&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwAR05dQGuzkdDdP6wiX8BWGvQOh-D1y1OdSnuvqtMzrGKY4xzp_yzw2sa2nE#Echobox=1594113258

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0070700497.htm


Public hospitals daily update on COVID-19 cases
***************************************


The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

As at noon today (July 7), four COVID-19 confirmed patients (case numbers: 1116, 1117, 1181 and 1197) were discharged from hospital in the past 24 hours. So far, a total of 1 161 patients with confirmed or probable infection have been discharged.

At present, there are 595 negative pressure rooms in public hospitals with 1 148 negative pressure beds activated. A total of 128 confirmed patients are currently hospitalised in eight hospitals, among which one patient is in critical condition (case number: 595), one is in serious condition (case number: 1269) and the remaining 126 patients are in stable condition.

The HA will maintain close contact with the Centre for Health Protection to monitor the latest developments and to inform the public and healthcare workers on the latest information in a timely manner.

Ends/Tuesday, July 7, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:03

****************https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...**************

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0070700662.htm


Public hospitals to stay vigilant to combat next wave of epidemic
************************************************** **


The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

Amid a number of local confirmed cases of COVID-19 with unknown source of infection, the risk of community outbreak has escalated. In accordance with the principle of suppress and lift, the Hospital Authority (HA) will enhance infection control measures to combat the next wave of epidemic and appeals for the understanding and cooperation from members of the public.

"Public hospitals shall start reinstating the 'Triage and Test Centres' of Accident and Emergency Departments (A&E) tomorrow (July 8) at appropriate locations within the hospitals. Suspected cases with stable condition will be tested and wait at designated area for the test results, while being segregated from other patients of the A&E," the HA spokesperson said.

"For isolation facilities, the HA shall defer some of scheduled annual maintenance works to ensure sufficient first-tier isolation facilities to admit suspected and confirmed COVID-19 patients. Public hospitals will also review the readiness of the second-tier isolation wards for possible admission of recovering patients with stable condition."

While non-emergency services in public hospitals have gradually resumed earlier, the HA will closely monitor the latest development of the epidemic and the operation of public hospitals. The pace of service resumption will be adjusted as appropriate to reduce the flow of people within the hospitals.

"The HA has also reviewed the current stockpile of personal protective equipment which is estimated to be adequate for around three months' usage. The HA will continue to procure the required personal protective equipment, drugs and test kits."

In view of the outbreak in an old aged home in the community, the HA will suspend the special visiting arrangement implemented earlier in non-acute hospitals beginning this Thursday (July 9) to minimise the flow of people within hospitals and the infection risks of inpatients. Meanwhile, hospitals will continue to make compassionate arrangements and video-visiting as far as practicable.

The spokesperson reminded all healthcare staff again to stay vigilant. When receiving or attending suspected and confirmed patients, they must strictly follow the infection control guidelines and wear appropriate personal protective equipment. Members of the public should maintain good hygiene habits by wearing masks and practising hand hygiene.

The HA will maintain close contact with the Centre for Health Protection to prudently monitor the latest development and fight the epidemic with its best efforts. The HA will also inform the public and healthcare workers on the latest information in a timely manner.



Ends/Tuesday, July 7, 2020
Issued at HKT 21:38

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0070700833.htm


HP investigates 14 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19
************************************************


The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has announced that as of 4pm today (July7), the CHP was investigating 14 additional confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), taking the number of cases to 1,300 in Hong Kong so far (comprising 1,299 confirmed cases and one probable case).

The newly reported cases announced today involve 10 males and four females aged between 14 and 85. Among them, five had travel history during the incubation period.

As for the local cases, as the 1298th case involved a resident of a residential care home for the elderly (RCHE), residents and staff of the RCHE who were identified as close contacts and will be required to be sent to quarantine centres for quarantine. Noting that residents of the RCHE might have special care needs, the DH staff has conducted a site visit with personnel from the Hospital Authority and officers from the Social Welfare Department (SWD) to determine if the environment of the RCHE is suitable for on-site quarantine of residents.

As the RCHE is considered by DH not suitable for quarantine of residents upon inspection, the Government has activated the Hong Kong PHAB Association Jockey Club PHAB Camp as a quarantine centre for residents of the RCHE who are close contacts of the confirmed case and are bedridden or requiring special care during the quarantine period.

The SWD will arrange for care workers to attend to the needs of residents who need to be admitted to this quarantine centre.

For other local cases announced today, in addition to distributing deep throat saliva specimen bottles to residents of buildings where the patients live at and students/teachers of school where a patient attended during the infectious period, the CHP has also adopted a further precautionary measure for early detection of possible transmission in the community. The CHP will distribute deep throat saliva specimen bottles by post to those who visited Sun Fat Restaurant (Address: 26-28 Man Ying Street, Ferry Point, Jordan) in connection with case 1289 from June 23 and those who visited Rich Pot (Address: Shop 137, 1/F, Kings Wing Plaza 1, 3 On Kwan Street, Shek Mun, Sha Tin) in connection with case 1293 from July 1. The related patrons can provide their name, postal address and date(s) of visit to the CHP via email (bottle@dh.gov.hk) for mailing of the specimen bottles to them. They are also urged to seek medical attention early if symptoms develop.

The CHP's epidemiological investigations and relevant contact tracing on the confirmed cases are ongoing. For case details and contact tracing information, please see the Annex.

As some recent confirmed cases of COVID-19 involved persons exempted from compulsory quarantine, starting tomorrow (July 8), crew members of aircrafts and vessels entering Hong Kong via the Hong Kong International Airport will be subject to a mandatory COVID-19 testing at the DH Temporary Specimen Collection Centre at the AsiaWorld-Expo, in addition to a 14-day medical surveillance, upon arrival.

Meanwhile, in a meeting on July 3, the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases (SCEZD) under the CHP has reviewed the criteria for releasing confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients from isolation and made updated recommendations based on the prevailing scientific understandings on COVID-19. The revised recommendations supersede the previous one made on May 6.

The updated criteria for releasing a confirmed COVID-19 patient from isolation are as follows:

For symptomatic patients:

1. Ten days have passed since the onset of illness; AND
2. Their clinical conditions improve and they are afebrile; AND
3. Either one of the following laboratory criteria:
- With two clinical specimens of the same type (i.e. respiratory or stool) tested negative for nucleic acid of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) taken at least 24 hours apart. For patients ever with stool specimen(s) tested positive, they should have two negative stool specimens collected 24 hours apart before release from isolation; or
- Tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibody.

For patients who did not develop any COVID-19 compatible symptoms all along:

1. Five days after the first positive RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2; AND
2. Either one of the following laboratory criteria:
- With two clinical specimens of the same type (i.e. respiratory or stool) tested negative for nucleic acid of SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR taken at least 24 hours apart. For patients ever with stool specimen(s) tested positive, they should have two negative stool specimens collected 24 hours apart before release from isolation; or
- Tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibody.

The CHP again urged members of the public to maintain an appropriate social distance with other people as far as possible in their daily lives to minimise the risk of infection. In particular, they should go out less and avoid social activities such as meal gatherings or other gatherings to reduce the chance of contacting infected persons who may not present any symptoms, and minimise the risk of outbreak clusters emerging in the community.

A spokesman for the CHP said, "Given that the situation of COVID-19 infection remains severe and that there is a continuous increase in the number of cases reported around the world, members of the public are strongly urged to avoid all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong.

"The CHP also strongly urges the public to maintain at all times strict personal and environmental hygiene, which is key to personal protection against infection and prevention of the spread of the disease in the community. On a personal level, members of the public should wear a surgical mask when having respiratory symptoms, taking public transport or staying in crowded places. They should also perform hand hygiene frequently, especially before touching the mouth, nose or eyes.

"As for household environmental hygiene, members of the public are advised to maintain drainage pipes properly, regularly pour water into drain outlets (U-traps) and cover all floor drain outlets when they are not in use. After using the toilet, they should put the toilet lid down before flushing to avoid spreading germs."

Moreover, the Government has launched the website "COVID-19 Thematic Website" (www.coronavirus.gov.hk) for announcing the latest updates on various news on COVID-19 infection and health advice to help the public understand the latest updates. Members of the public may also gain access to information via the COVID-19 WhatsApp Helpline launched by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer. Simply by saving 9617 1823 in their phone contacts or clicking the link wa.me/85296171823?text=hi, they will be able to obtain information on COVID-19 as well as the "StayHomeSafe" mobile app and wristband via WhatsApp....

...Ends/Tuesday, July 7, 2020
Issued at HKT 23:10

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0070800549.htm


Public hospitals daily update on COVID-19 cases
***************************************


The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

As at noon today (July 8), six COVID-19 confirmed patients (case numbers: 1143, 1169, 1182, 1185, 1204 and 1226) were discharged from hospital in the past 24 hours. So far, a total of 1 167 patients with confirmed or probable infection have been discharged.

At present, there are 595 negative pressure rooms in public hospitals with 1 148 negative pressure beds activated. A total of 139 confirmed patients are currently hospitalised in eight hospitals, among which two patients are in critical condition (case numbers: 595 and 1315), one is in serious condition (case number: 1269) and the remaining 136 patients are in stable condition.

The Hospital Authority will maintain close contact with the Centre for Health Protection to monitor the latest developments and to inform the public and healthcare workers on the latest information in a timely manner.




Ends/Wednesday, July 8, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:35

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/...14-cases-covid

Coronavirus: 24 new cases confirmed in Hong Kong’s infection upsurge, 19 locally transmitted

Spate of new cases revealed by health officials on Wednesday with Hong Kong battling a third wave of contagion
Officials say they fear a major community outbreak with the source of infection a mystery in so many new cases
Chris Lau , Elizabeth Cheung and Lilian Cheng
Published: 1:30pm, 8 Jul, 2020
Updated: 6:29pm, 8 Jul, 2020

Hong Kong has recorded 19 new local infections among Wednesday’s coronavirus toll of 24 as the city starts to feel the impact of a third wave of contagion.

Of the locally transmitted cases, five sources of infection could not be traced involving residents from across the city, including Tsuen Wan, Mong Kok and Causeway Bay, health officials told a press briefing.

The remaining local cases were linked to possible infection clusters – eight at a care home for the elderly in Tsz Wan Shan and six associated with restaurants in Choi **** and Jordan.

“We are worried there will be a major community outbreak, as many of these cases are with unidentified sources [of infection],” said Dr Chuang Shuk-kwan, head of the communicable disease branch of the Centre for Health Protection.

“Quite a number of these cases had gatherings and visited a lot of places during their incubation period thus making tracing difficult.”...

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0070800804.htm


CHP investigates 24 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19
************************************************


The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has announced that as of 4pm today (July 8), the CHP was investigating 24 additional confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), taking the number of cases to 1,324 in Hong Kong so far (comprising 1,323 confirmed cases and one probable case).

The newly reported cases announced today involve 14 males and 10 females aged between 31 and 92. Among them, five had travel history during the incubation period.

For the local cases announced today, the CHP will distribute deep throat saliva specimen bottles to residents of buildings where the patients live at as well as to those whom they might have contact with during the infectious period. People are also urged to seek medical attention early if symptoms develop.

The CHP's epidemiological investigations and relevant contact tracing on the confirmed cases are ongoing. For case details and contact tracing information, please see the Annex.

The CHP again urged members of the public to maintain an appropriate social distance with other people as far as possible in their daily lives to minimise the risk of infection. In particular, they should go out less and avoid social activities such as meal gatherings or other gatherings to reduce the chance of contacting infected persons who may not present any symptoms, and minimise the risk of outbreak clusters emerging in the community.

A spokesman for the CHP said, "Given that the situation of COVID-19 infection remains severe and that there is a continuous increase in the number of cases reported around the world, members of the public are strongly urged to avoid all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong.

"The CHP also strongly urges the public to maintain at all times strict personal and environmental hygiene, which is key to personal protection against infection and prevention of the spread of the disease in the community. On a personal level, members of the public should wear a surgical mask when having respiratory symptoms, taking public transport or staying in crowded places. They should also perform hand hygiene frequently, especially before touching the mouth, nose or eyes.

"As for household environmental hygiene, members of the public are advised to maintain drainage pipes properly, regularly pour water into drain outlets (U-traps) and cover all floor drain outlets when they are not in use. After using the toilet, they should put the toilet lid down before flushing to avoid spreading germs."

Moreover, the Government has launched the website "COVID-19 Thematic Website" (www.coronavirus.gov.hk) for announcing the latest updates on various news on COVID-19 infection and health advice to help the public understand the latest updates. Members of the public may also gain access to information via the COVID-19 WhatsApp Helpline launched by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer. Simply by saving 9617 1823 in their phone contacts or clicking the link wa.me/85296171823?text=hi, they will be able to obtain information on COVID-19 as well as the "StayHomeSafe" mobile app and wristband via WhatsApp...

...Ends/Wednesday, July 8, 2020
Issued at HKT 20:03

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0070900532.htm


Public hospitals daily update on COVID-19 cases
***************************************


The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

As at noon today (July 9), nine COVID-19 confirmed patients (case numbers: 1084, 1176, 1184, 1186, 1188, 1193, 1194, 1227 and 1248) were discharged from hospital in the past 24 hours. So far, a total of 1 176 patients with confirmed or probable infection have been discharged.

At present, there are 595 negative pressure rooms in public hospitals with 1 148 negative pressure beds activated. A total of 149 confirmed patients are currently hospitalised in eight hospitals, among which two patients are in critical condition (case numbers: 595 and 1315), two are in serious condition (case numbers: 1269 and 1306) and the remaining 145 patients are in stable condition.

In view of the recent developments of the pandemic, all public hospitals will suspend the service of Geriatric Day Hospitals and Psychiatric Day Hospitals starting from tomorrow (July 10).

The Hospital Authority will maintain close contact with the Centre for Health Protection to monitor the latest developments and to inform the public and healthcare workers on the latest information in a timely manner.


Ends/Thursday, July 9, 2020
Issued at HKT 17:55

************************************************** ***********

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0070900723.htm

Government tightens social distancing measures
***************************************


The Government will gazette today (July 9) directions under the Prevention and Control of Disease (Requirements and Directions) (Business and Premises) Regulation (Cap. 599F) to tighten social distancing measures.

The epidemic situation of COVID-19 in Hong Kong has undergone drastic changes recently. New cases recorded during the period from July 2 to July 8, 2020 include 31 cases without travel history during the incubation period. Twenty-four new confirmed cases were recorded on July 8, including 19 local cases, five cases of which the source of infection is unknown.

According to the World Health Organization and health experts, COVID-19 would not be eradicated without effective treatment and vaccination. The Government thus is required to incorporate work in relation to disease prevention and control as well as infection management into the new normal of the daily operation of the society. To this end, the Government has all along adopted the "suppress and lift" strategy in order to quickly adjust epidemic control measures should there be inevitable sporadic cases or small-scale community outbreaks.

A spokesman for the Food and Health Bureau said, "The detection of quite a number of local cases with unknown sources of infection detected over a short period of time raises an important alarm, reminding the community that members of the public must not let down their guard in terms of epidemic prevention and control. In view of the latest public health risk assessment, in particular the higher risks brought about by activities conducted without wearing masks as shown in recent cases, we are of the view that it is now necessary to tighten social distancing measures, including the limits on number of persons and capacity, as well as other infection control requirements on catering business and some scheduled premises."

The requirements and restrictions under the latest directions (details at Annex) will come into effect on July 11, 2020 for a period of 14 days till July 24, 2020 as follows:

Catering business
-------------------

(1) On catering business, the number of customers at any catering premises at any one time must not exceed 60% of the normal seating capacity of the premises. No more than eight persons may be seated together at one table within any catering premises, while for bars and pubs, no more than four persons may be seated together at one table therein. Other requirements and restrictions in relation to catering business premises will be maintained.

Scheduled premises
----------------------

(2) On scheduled premises, the limit on number of persons at premises where activities are conducted without wearing masks are tightened –

(a) For party rooms and karaoke establishments, the number of persons allowed in each room at the same time is tightened from 16 to eight.

(b) For fitness centres, the number of persons (including the coach) allowed in each group training or class at the same time is tightened from 16 to eight. For a group training or class of more than eight persons, it must be conducted in a way to ensure that persons are arranged in groups of no more than eight persons and there is at least 1.5 metres between each group or there is some form of partition which could serve as effective buffer between each group. The coach must wear a mask all the time if he/she is not staying at a fixed location not less than 1.5 metres from other persons.

(c) For clubs or nightclubs, the number of persons who may be seated together at one table is tightened from eight to four. The number of customers allowed therein at any one time is tightened from 80% to 60% of the normal seating capacity or normal capacity of such premises.

(3) No eating or drinking inside cinemas and all places of public entertainment with live performance is allowed.

Other requirements and restrictions in relation to scheduled premises will be maintained.

All of the other directions issued earlier by the Secretary for Food and Health in accordance to Cap. 599F (i.e. the directions which took effect on July 3) will be suspended on July 11 procedurally.

"We will continue to closely monitor the development of the epidemic situation and review the various measures in place from time to time with a view to making suitable adjustments taking into account all relevant factors. We also strongly urge the public to stay vigilant, maintain at all times strict personal and environmental hygiene, and maintain an appropriate social distance with other people as far as possible in their daily lives to prevent the virus from spreading in the community," said the spokesman.

Persons responsible for carrying on catering businesses and the managers of scheduled premises that contravene the statutory requirements under Cap. 599F would have committed a criminal offence. Offenders are subject to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months.

In addition, the direction made by the Secretary for Food and Health under the Prevention and Control of Disease (Prohibition on Group Gathering) Regulation (Cap. 599G) which took effect on July 3 remains in effect.



Ends/Thursday, July 9, 2020
Issued at HKT 20:13

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.sohu.com/a/406675432_260616


42 new cases of new coronary pneumonia diagnosed in Hong Kong, outbreak of collective infection in a nursing home
2020-07-09 17:47

"Hong Kong-Thai Care Center" for outbreak of collective infection

Overseas Network News on July 9, according to Hong Kong media reports, the Hong Kong Department of Health's Center for Health Protection announced that as of 4 pm on the 9th, the center is investigating 42 newly diagnosed cases of new coronary pneumonia, of which 23 cases are from Ciyunshan Gangtai Care In the old center, 31 cases have been diagnosed in the hospital; 1365 cases have been diagnosed in Hong Kong so far.

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0070900775.htm


CHP investigates 42 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19
************************************************


The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has announced that as of 4pm today (July 9), the CHP was investigating 42 additional confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), taking the number of cases to 1 366 in Hong Kong so far (comprising 1 365 confirmed cases and one probable case).

The newly reported cases announced today involve 27 males and 15 females aged between three months and 95 years. Among them, eight had a travel history during the incubation period.

For the local cases announced today, the CHP will distribute deep throat saliva specimen bottles to residents of buildings where the patients live, as well as to those whom they might have had contact with during the infectious period. People are also urged to seek medical attention early if symptoms develop.

The CHP's epidemiological investigations and relevant contact tracing on the confirmed cases are ongoing. For case details and contact tracing information, please see the Annex.

The CHP again urged members of the public to maintain an appropriate social distance with other people as far as possible in their daily lives to minimise the risk of infection. In particular, they should go out less and avoid social activities such as meal gatherings or other gatherings to reduce the chance of contacting infected persons who may not present any symptoms, and minimise the risk of outbreak clusters emerging in the community.

A spokesman for the CHP said, "Given that the situation of COVID-19 infection remains severe and that there is a continuous increase in the number of cases reported around the world, members of the public are strongly urged to avoid all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong.

"The CHP also strongly urges the public to maintain at all times strict personal and environmental hygiene, which is key to personal protection against infection and prevention of the spread of the disease in the community. On a personal level, members of the public should wear a surgical mask when having respiratory symptoms, taking public transport or staying in crowded places. They should also perform hand hygiene frequently, especially before touching the mouth, nose or eyes.

"As for household environmental hygiene, members of the public are advised to maintain drainage pipes properly, regularly pour water into drain outlets (U-traps) and cover all floor drain outlets when they are not in use. After using the toilet, they should put the toilet lid down before flushing to avoid spreading germs."

Moreover, the Government has launched the website "COVID-19 Thematic Website" (www.coronavirus.gov.hk) for announcing the latest updates on various news on COVID-19 infection and health advice to help the public understand the latest updates. Members of the public may also gain access to information via the COVID-19 WhatsApp Helpline launched by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer. Simply by saving 9617 1823 in their phone contacts or clicking the link wa.me/85296171823?text=hi, they will be able to obtain information on COVID-19 as well as the "StayHomeSafe" mobile app and wristband via WhatsApp...

...Ends/Thursday, July 9, 2020
Issued at HKT 20:00

[kiwibird]

http://china.qianlong.com/2020/0710/4404843.shtml

"Since mid-Jun, Hong Kong has had no new confirmed cases of new pneumonia for 21 consecutive days, but the situation has recently changed. Especilly on the 9th, 42 new cases of new pneumonia were diagnosed in Hong Kong on that day, of which 34 were local cases. This was the day when Hong Kong had the most new local cases since the outbreak in January. The most concerned thing is that cases of unknown origin continue to appear. In the past week, a total of 12 cases of unknown origin spread over Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the New Territories. This shows that invisible transmission chains have been hidden in Hong Kong.
...
He Bailang also said that the virus is constantly changing. Some studies have shown that after March, the position of one of the proteins has changed. After the virus structure has changed a new virus species has become popular worldwide. The virus can reproduce in the upper respiratory tract of patients. The number and rate of reproduction are accelerating, so the amount of virus detected in the upper respiratory tract of patients recently is significantly higher than that of three months ago. The mutation of the virus also caused this round of epidemic to be more severe than before.

The reporter noted that on the 9th of Hong Kong, 42 new cases of new pneumonia were diagnosed, of which 8 were imported cases, and 5 of them were from Kazakhstan.

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071000596.htm


Public hospitals daily update on COVID-19 cases
***************************************


The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

As at noon today (July 10), 11 COVID-19 confirmed patients (case numbers: 1129, 1130, 1132, 1138, 1159, 1160, 1179, 1198, 1199, 1235 and 1258) were discharged from hospital in the past 24 hours. So far, a total of 1,187 patients with confirmed or probable infection have been discharged.

At present, there are 596 negative pressure rooms in public hospitals with 1,149 negative pressure beds activated. A total of 172 confirmed patients are currently hospitalised in nine hospitals, among which two patients are in critical condition (case numbers: 595 and 1315), two are in serious condition (case numbers: 1269 and 1306) and the remaining 168 patients are in stable condition.

The Hospital Authority will maintain close contact with the Centre for Health Protection to monitor the latest developments and to inform the public and healthcare workers on the latest information in a timely manner.


Ends/Friday, July 10, 2020
Issued at HKT 17:55

*************************************
Source: https://tech.sina.com.cn/roll/2020-0...k3123993.shtml

38 new cases of new pneumonia diagnosed in Hong Kong, and 9 cases have yet to be identified
July 10, 2020 17:21 Interface News

Original title: 38 new cases of new pneumonia diagnosed in Hong Kong, 9 cases have not yet been identified

CCTV news client news, according to the news released by the Hong Kong SAR Government Health Protection Center, as of July 10 at 17:00, Hong Kong added 38 new cases of new coronary pneumonia in a single day, 6 cases were imported from abroad, and the remaining 32 were local cases, of which Nine cases have yet to be identified. So far, the cumulative number of confirmed cases in Hong Kong has increased to 1403.

Among the newly added local cases, 11 people live in Mingquan Building, Shuiquan'ao Village, Shatian, spread over multiple floors. At present, the staff of the Department of Health has distributed deep throat saliva sample bottles to the building and conducted deep disinfection.

Other new cases include two employees of the cosmetics chain store Salsa and a 13-year-old female high school student, partly related to the site where there were multiple confirmed cases earlier, including Pingshi Village Binji Congee Noodles, Jordan Sin Fat Tea Restaurant and Ci Yunshan Gangtai Care Center.

The Hospital Authority of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region said that the current occupancy rate of first-line negative pressure wards is 70%, and it is ready to use about 500 second-line isolation beds at any time, and to receive stable patients in community isolation centers.

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071000779.htm


CHP investigates 38 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19
************************************************


The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has announced that as of 4pm today (July 10), the CHP was investigating 38 additional confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), taking the number of cases to 1 404 in Hong Kong so far (comprising 1 403 confirmed cases and one probable case).

The newly reported cases announced today involve 18 males and 20 females aged between seven and 89 years. Among them, six had a travel history during the incubation period.

For the local cases announced today, the CHP will distribute deep throat saliva specimen bottles to residents of buildings where the patients live, as well as to those whom they might have had contact with during the infectious period. People are also urged to seek medical attention early if symptoms develop.

The CHP's epidemiological investigations and relevant contact tracing on the confirmed cases are ongoing. For case details and contact tracing information, please see the Annex.

The CHP again urged members of the public to maintain an appropriate social distance with other people as far as possible in their daily lives to minimise the risk of infection. In particular, they should go out less and avoid social activities such as meal gatherings or other gatherings to reduce the chance of contacting infected persons who may not present any symptoms, and minimise the risk of outbreak clusters emerging in the community.

A spokesman for the CHP said, "Given that the situation of COVID-19 infection remains severe and that there is a continuous increase in the number of cases reported around the world, members of the public are strongly urged to avoid all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong.

"The CHP also strongly urges the public to maintain at all times strict personal and environmental hygiene, which is key to personal protection against infection and prevention of the spread of the disease in the community. On a personal level, members of the public should wear a surgical mask when having respiratory symptoms, taking public transport or staying in crowded places. They should also perform hand hygiene frequently, especially before touching the mouth, nose or eyes.

"As for household environmental hygiene, members of the public are advised to maintain drainage pipes properly, regularly pour water into drain outlets (U-traps) and cover all floor drain outlets when they are not in use. After using the toilet, they should put the toilet lid down before flushing to avoid spreading germs."

Moreover, the Government has launched the website "COVID-19 Thematic Website" (www.coronavirus.gov.hk) for announcing the latest updates on various news on COVID-19 infection and health advice to help the public understand the latest updates. Members of the public may also gain access to information via the COVID-19 WhatsApp Helpline launched by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer. Simply by saving 9617 1823 in their phone contacts or clicking the link wa.me/85296171823?text=hi, they will be able to obtain information on COVID-19 as well as the "StayHomeSafe" mobile app and wristband via WhatsApp...

...Ends/Friday, July 10, 2020
Issued at HKT 21:00

[Shiloh]

Source: http://globalnewstv.com.tw/202007/115743/

New Coronary Pneumonia diagnosed in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Government: more severe than in March
07/11 18:57
in Global Epidemic, Asia’s Fastest Report
The situation in Hong Kong changes. The Ministry of the Interior will discuss the conditions of residence with the MAC

[Oneworld News Network / Comprehensive Report]

The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region said on the 11th that 29 new cases of new pneumonia were confirmed today, of which 17 were local cases, and another 33 were positive on the test and are currently on the control list. Zhang Zhujun, director of the Hong Kong Center for Health Protection, said that the current epidemic situation in Hong Kong is more severe than in March. If the public does not raise the awareness of epidemic prevention, many activities will continue to be held and the outbreak situation will be more serious.

Zhang Zhujun said that among the 17 newly-increased local cases, 3 are for the staff of the nursing home, 3 are related to the tea restaurant, and the other 8 cases are of unknown origin, but the scope of activities is wide, and many are office workers. Before confirming the diagnosis, you have contact with your colleagues. There are also middle school students on the list of diagnoses and close contact with several classmates.

Zhang Zhujun mentioned that in addition to the 17 local cases confirmed, 33 cases were confirmed on the same day (nucleic acid test was positive), and some people were related to the previous confirmed cases. The 33 persons with positive test results also have a wide area of activity. Some people have been to the tea restaurant, some have gone to school, some have taken classes in the cram school, some have eaten hot pot with colleagues, and there are immigration staff working at the Shenzhen port .

Zhang Zhujun emphasized that the Hong Kong New Coronary Pneumonia epidemic is currently very serious and may be more severe than the trend in March, because the bar clusters in March are mostly imported cases, and community infections have not started, but the list of diagnoses on the 11th is all over the elderly homes, schools, etc. Waiting, the situation has become much more serious, and it has erupted in Hong Kong. If the awareness of prevention is not raised, the future may be more serious.

[kiwibird]

https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/...t-20-new-cases

Hong Kong’s
third wave of Covid-19
is by far the most serious of the public health crisis to date, the health authorities warned on Saturday as at least 61 people in the city were either confirmed as infected or had tested preliminary positive.
The city reported 16 local infections among the 28 cases officially recorded on Saturday, while another 33 people were awaiting confirmation they had caught the
coronavirus
.

The continued surge, which takes Hong Kong’s Covid-19 total to 1,431 with seven deaths, prompted pleas from health experts for the public to stay at home and avoid going into work where possible, while the government said it would not rule out a further tightening of social-distancing restrictions.

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/...ew-coronavirus

Hong Kong third wave: 58 new Covid-19 infections reported, as health official suggests tightening of social-distancing measures may be necessary

Authorities have so far been unable to trace the source of infection in 13 of the 38 confirmed cases
Centre for Health Protection’s Dr Chuang Shuk-kwan urges public to avoid going out amid the city’s most severe wave of infections to date

Zoe Low
Lilian Cheng
Zoe Low and Lilian Cheng
Published: 3:43pm, 12 Jul, 2020
Updated: 5:29pm, 12 Jul, 2020

Hong Kong’s third wave of Covid-19 infections
continued unabated on Sunday as authorities reported at least 58 more cases, most of which were confirmed, with the remainder testing preliminary positive.

Dr Chuang Shuk-kwan, head of the Centre for Health Protection’s communicable disease branch, said at a daily briefing that 38 infections had been confirmed, including 30 local cases, while more than 20 people were still waiting to find out if they had the coronavirus.

Health authorities have so far been unable to trace the source of infection in 13 of Sunday’s confirmed cases, part of an upsurge that has taken the city’s Covid-19 tally to 1,469, with seven related deaths.

“I think both the government and the public may have to tighten up measures to maintain social distancing and avoid going out as much as possible to try and control the epidemic,” Chuang said, adding that introducing tighter regulations would be the government’s decision.

She also urged people living in areas where recent cases have been discovered to get tested immediately if they felt unwell rather than waiting for the Centre for Health Protection to hand out sample collection bottles...