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

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071200614.htm




Public hospitals daily update on COVID-19 cases
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

As at noon today (July 12), 17 COVID-19 confirmed patients (case numbers: 1135, 1195, 1201, 1203, 1218, 1221, 1222, 1229, 1232, 1243, 1257, 1276, 1278, 1280, 1287, 1288 and 1294 ) were discharged from hospital in the past 24 hours. So far, a total of 1 214 patients with confirmed or probable infection have been discharged.

At present, there are 604 negative pressure rooms in public hospitals with 1 157 negative pressure beds activated. A total of 205 confirmed patients are currently hospitalised in ten hospitals, among which four patients are in critical condition (case numbers: 595, 1315, 1341 and 1401), three are in serious condition (case numbers: 1269, 1306 and 1322) and the remaining 198 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/Sunday, July 12, 2020
Issued at HKT 17:56

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Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071200719.htm


CHP investigates 38 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19
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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has announced that as of 4pm today (July 12), the CHP was investigating 38 additional confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), taking the number of cases to 1 470 in Hong Kong so far (comprising 1 469 confirmed cases and one probable case).

The newly reported cases announced today involve 21 males and 17 females aged between seven and 89 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/Sunday, July 12, 2020
Issued at HKT 21:20

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071300525.htm


Public hospitals daily update on COVID-19 cases
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

As at noon today (July 13), three COVID-19 confirmed patients (case numbers: 1224, 1262 and 1285) were discharged from hospital in the past 24 hours. So far, a total of 1,217 patients with confirmed or probable infection have been discharged.

At present, there are 615 negative pressure rooms in public hospitals with 1,157 negative pressure beds activated. A total of 241 confirmed patients are currently hospitalised in 12 hospitals, among which five patients are in critical condition (case numbers: 595, 1315, 1341, 1401 and 1450), seven are in serious condition (case numbers: 1269, 1306, 1322, 1350, 1439, 1443 and 1463) and the remaining 229 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/Monday, July 13, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:11
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Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071300814.htm


CHP investigates 52 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19
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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has announced that as of 4pm today (July 13), the CHP was investigating 52 additional confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), taking the number of cases to 1 522 in Hong Kong so far (comprising 1 521 confirmed cases and one probable case).

The newly reported cases announced today involve 27 males and 25 females aged between five months and 92 years. Among them, 11 had a travel history during the incubation period.

As the recent cases involve a number of restaurant-related clusters, the CHP appeals to members of the public who recently visited the restaurants where patients of confirmed cases had visited, especially the Green River Restaurant, Deluxe Cuisine and Windsor in Tsz Wan Shan Shopping Centre; Dim Sum Square on Hillier Street, Sheung Wan; and Lucky Dragon Palace Restaurant in Choi Wan Commercial Complex, to monitor their health condition. If symptoms develop, they should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

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/Monday, July 13, 2020
Issued at HKT 20:55

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Source: http://www.chinanews.com/ga/2020/07-13/9237227.shtml

52 new cases of new coronary pneumonia diagnosed in Hong Kong
July 13, 2020 20:49　 Source: Xinhuanet Participate in Interactive Participate in Interactive

Xinhua News Agency, Hong Kong, July 13th—The Center for Health Protection of the Department of Health of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government introduced on the 13th that as of 4pm that day, there were 52 new cases of new coronary pneumonia diagnosed in Hong Kong, including 41 new local infections, the single day since the outbreak A new high, with 11 additional input cases. A total of 1521 confirmed cases of new coronary pneumonia were reported in Hong Kong.

At the briefing meeting of the Hong Kong SAR Government on the same day, Zhang Zhujun, director of the Department of Infectious Diseases of the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health of the Hong Kong SAR Government, said that 21 of the 41 local infections were related to earlier confirmed cases, involving previously confirmed cases. 20 nursing homes and restaurants still have no source of infection.

　　 Zhang Zhujun admitted that the current epidemic in Hong Kong is very serious, and the number of confirmed cases with unclear sources of infection is accelerating daily. It is believed that there may be more invisible cases with no source of infection and no symptoms in the community.

　　 Recently newly confirmed cases are related to many restaurants, involving restaurant staff and diners. Zhang Zhujun said that the Department of Health will track close contacts with the restaurant in question and called on people who have recently been to the restaurant to seek medical attention if they feel unwell.

　　The chief administrative manager of the Hong Kong Hospital Authority (Quality and Standards) Liu Jiaxian said that a citizen was donated at the West Kowloon Blood Donation Station on the 5th and was diagnosed with the new coronavirus on the 12th. The HA is tracking his blood. A patient in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital received part of the blood donated by the citizen, and has been transferred to the isolation ward for observation.

　　According to the data of the Hospital Authority, as of the 13th, a total of 1,217 confirmed or suspected patients had been discharged, and 241 confirmed patients were hospitalized in 12 hospitals in Hong Kong. Among the confirmed patients, 5 were in critical condition and 7 were in serious condition.

[Shiloh]

Source: https://udn.com/news/story/120944/46...ebreaknews_ch2

Hong Kong's new coronary pneumonia epidemic returns with 1 new death
2020-07-13 22:15 WebMD / Taipei 13th
The eighth new death case in Hong Kong. China News Agency

Comprehensive Hong Kong media reports that a 95-year-old female patient diagnosed with New Coronary Pneumonia and a member of the "Hong Kong-Taiwan Care Center" died incurable at 6:31 this evening, becoming the eighth death case in Hong Kong. The "Hong Kong-Thai Care Center" is one of the sources of infection in a new wave of outbreaks in Hong Kong.

According to reports, the elderly female case was originally a chronically ill patient. Because her body was not suitable for admission on July 10, there were no signs of pneumonia and the situation was fairly stable. But on the 11th, he turned sharply and must use oxygen to assist breathing and medical treatment before he was diagnosed.

The report pointed out that the condition of this case continued to deteriorate afterwards and was declared dead at 6:31 this evening.

In Hong Kong, there has recently been the third wave of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19, New Coronary Pneumonia) outbreak, and the number of diagnoses has risen again. Zhang Zhujun, director of the Department of Infectious Diseases, Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong Department of Health, announced that there are 52 new confirmed cases in Hong Kong today, including 41 local cases, and the source of infection in 20 of these 41 cases is still unknown.

To date, the cumulative number of confirmed cases of new coronary pneumonia in Hong Kong has risen to 1,522, including 8 deaths.

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Source: https://hk.on.cc/hk/bkn/cnt/news/202...00822_001.html


48 new confirmed cases in Hong Kong 　 including 40 local cases
July 14, 2020 13:12
There were 48 new confirmed cases today.
The third wave of new coronary pneumonia outbreaks in Hong Kong continued to erupt. Zhang Zhujun, director of the Department of Infectious Diseases, Centre for Health Protection, Department of Health announced that Hong Kong today (14th) added 48 confirmed cases, including 8 imported cases and 40 local cases. 1570 cases. Among the local cases, 16 cases are related to previous cases, and the remaining 24 cases are of unknown origin.
In addition, a notice from the Yuen Long Plaza Service Office to merchants was circulated on the Internet, stating that the Service Office received notification from the Centre for Health Protection that a staff member had a positive test result for the New Coronary Pneumonia virus and was still waiting for the review result . According to records of the service office, the staff member wore a mask while on duty at the mall and has not returned to the mall to work since the 11th of this month.
The plaza completed the thorough cleaning and disinfection of the public areas and facilities of the mall and the service office in the early hours of this morning (14th), and arranged for all staff to conduct a virus test, while the staff in contact were temporarily on leave to wait for the test results.

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071400602.htm

Public hospitals daily update on COVID-19 cases
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

As at noon today (July 14), 12 COVID-19 confirmed patients (case numbers: 1153, 1168, 1202, 1209, 1210, 1214, 1215, 1233, 1239, 1250, 1251 and 1252) were discharged from hospital in the past 24 hours. So far, a total of 1,229 patients with confirmed or probable infection have been discharged.

At present, there are 632 negative pressure rooms in public hospitals with 1,174 negative pressure beds activated. A total of 278 confirmed patients are currently hospitalised in 12 hospitals, among which six patients are in critical condition (case numbers: 595, 1315, 1338, 1350, 1401 and 1450), eight are in serious condition (case numbers: 1269, 1322, 1346, 1428, 1439, 1443, 1463 and 1472) and the remaining 264 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/Tuesday, July 14, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:10
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Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071400955.htm


CHP investigates 48 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19
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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has announced that as of 4pm today (July 14), the CHP was investigating 48 additional confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), taking the number of cases to 1 570 in Hong Kong so far (comprising 1 569 confirmed cases and one probable case).

The newly reported cases announced today involve 27 males and 21 females aged between 6 and 90 years. Among them, eight had travel history during the incubation period.

In light of 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 with whom they might have had contact 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/Tuesday, July 14, 2020
Issued at HKT 20:30

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071500550.htm


Public hospitals daily update on COVID-19 cases
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

As at noon today (July 15), 12 COVID-19 confirmed patients (case numbers: 1127, 1207, 1238, 1242, 1245, 1246, 1259, 1261, 1273, 1277, 1379 and 1380) were discharged from hospital in the past 24 hours. So far, a total of 1,241 patients with confirmed or probable infection have been discharged.

At present, there are 639 negative pressure rooms in public hospitals with 1,186 negative pressure beds activated. A total of 314 confirmed patients are currently hospitalised in 13 hospitals, among which seven patients are in critical condition (case numbers: 595, 1315, 1338, 1346, 1401, 1428 and 1450), nine are in serious condition (case numbers: 1269, 1322, 1365, 1439, 1443, 1463, 1470, 1472 and 1562) and the remaining 298 patients are in stable condition. A 90-year-old female patient (case number: 1350) passed away this afternoon. Including this case, nine COVID-19 patients have passed away in public hospitals so far.

In view of the latest COVID-19 situation and expert views, admission screening in public hospitals will be further extended today to cover particular high-risk groups, such as residents living in Tsz Wan Shan, workers of food premises and taxi drivers. Screening for inpatients will also be enhanced. Besides patients with influenza and pneumonia symptoms, patients with new loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath, and gastrointestinal symptoms during their stay in hospitals will be arranged for COVID-19 testing.

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 15, 2020
Issued at HKT 19:10

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Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071500824.htm


CHP investigates 19 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19
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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has announced that as of 4pm today (July 15), the CHP was investigating 19 additional confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), taking the number of cases to 1 589 in Hong Kong so far (comprising 1 588 confirmed cases and one probable case).

The newly reported cases announced today involve eight males and 11 females aged between 17 and 75 years. Among them, five had travel history during the incubation period.

As for the local cases, the CHP will distribute deep throat saliva specimen bottles to residents of buildings where the patients live, as well as to those with whom they might have had contact during the infectious period. However, as there are recently a large number of confirmed cases, the relevant testing capacity remained limited even though the DH has earlier procured testing services directly from local private laboratories to enhance public testing capacity. Hence, the CHP will, based on risk assessment, accord priority to people with higher risk (for example, those who live in buildings with more than one unit with confirmed cases of unknown source) when distributing specimen bottles for testing. People are also urged to seek medical attention early even if mild symptoms develop to help prevent the spread of the disease in the community.

In view of the severe epidemic situation, the CHP called on members of the public to avoid going out, having social contact and dining out. They should put on a surgical mask and maintain stringent hand hygiene when they need to go out. As a number of recent cases involve elderly people, the CHP strongly urged the elderly to stay home as far as possible and avoid going out. They should consider asking their family and friends to help with every day tasks such as shopping for basic necessities.

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.

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 15, 2020
Issued at HKT 21:18

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.sohu.com/a/407896396_162522

Hong Kong media: students or staff of multiple universities in Hong Kong confirm the diagnosis of new coronary pneumonia
2020-07-16 09:26

Hong Kong: New crown epidemic spread to campus

[Global Network Reporter Yin Yanhui] Hong Kong’s new coronary pneumonia epidemic continued, with 19 new cases confirmed on the 15th. According to Hong Kong's "Toutiao Daily" reported on July 15, the University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Baptist University Student Union and City University announced that there were students and staff diagnosed respectively.

According to reports, the University of Hong Kong stated that a student developed symptoms on the 14th and confirmed positive for the new coronavirus on the 15th. The student visited the Zhihua Pavilion, Mrs. He Shiguang Sports Center and the U-Sweet snack shop in the Student Union Building on July 3. The school has cleaned and disinfected the Zhihua Hall and Madame Ho Shiguang Sports Center during the period when the student suspected of being diagnosed.

On the evening of the 15th, the editorial committee of the HKBU Student Union stated that the vice president and secretary general Zou Haoyun sent an e-mail on the 15th, saying that the school confirmed that a staff member working on the 10th floor of the teaching and administrative building was diagnosed with new coronary pneumonia. The school has disinfected the places where the diagnosed staff have been. The 7 other employees who were identified as close contacts have been tested negative for viruses since they lived and worked on the 13th.

In addition, City University sent an e-mail to students, stating that a staff member of the Department of Electrical Engineering diagnosed New Coronary Pneumonia. Since he reported a suspected virus infection on July 8, he was immediately assigned to work at home. The school said that he would thoroughly clean the ones he had been to. Offices and other places will disinfect the rest of the electrical engineering department on the 16th.

According to the Health Protection Center of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, as of 19:00 on July 15, 19 new cases of new coronary pneumonia were confirmed in Hong Kong in a single day, and 37 cases were initially confirmed. Among the newly confirmed cases, 5 cases were imported from abroad, and the remaining 14 cases were all local cases. Among them, 7 cases were related to the group where multiple confirmed cases have been found before, and 7 cases have not yet been identified. . Up to now, 1588 cases have been diagnosed in Hong Kong.

The CHP reminded Hong Kong citizens that the number of confirmed cases in Hong Kong has continued to increase in the past week. Although the number of confirmed cases has dropped slightly in the past two days, the epidemic has not peaked yet. The public should reduce travel, especially the elderly should stay at home as much as possible.

[Shiloh]

Source: https://finance.sina.com.cn/china/gn...x5614922.shtml

Hong Kong government tightens various epidemic prevention measures
July 16, 2020 03:22 World Wide Web

　　 [Global Times Comprehensive Report] The Hong Kong Department of Health's Centre for Health Protection announced on the 15th that 19 new cases of new coronavirus were confirmed in Hong Kong that day, and 37 cases were initially confirmed.

　　As the SAR government tightened various anti-epidemic measures, a large number of Hong Kong citizens began to purchase daily necessities in large quantities. According to Hong Kong's "Sing Tao Daily" reported on the 15th, some supermarkets appeared on the 14th. Many people bought rice and toilet paper. Ciyun Mountain and Tung Chung supermarkets, which are in the epidemic-stricken area, were sold out of dry food. The shelves of instant noodles, rice, and bread have been emptied, and some residents need to "cross the district" to grab shopping funds. Wellcome and PARKnSHOP have launched “restrictions on purchase orders”. A spokesperson for Wellcome stated that due to the rapid increase in demand for individual products, in order to ensure that each customer can purchase the required items, all branches implemented “temporary purchase restrictions” to restrict The customer's single purchase quantity of 14 kinds of commodities such as white rice, eggs, spaghetti, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, bleach, disinfectant, disinfectant wet tissues, masks, canned meat, etc., each shall not exceed two; When the demand for individual goods returns to normal levels, the purchase restriction will be cancelled. PARKnSHOP also restricts the purchase of designated items such as white rice, eggs, toilet paper, etc., each person can purchase two pieces at a time. Chen Jiannian, chairman of the Food Commission, said that supermarkets have learned the experience of the "buying panic" in the early stage of the epidemic. Restricting purchases is understandable, but at present, food and supplies such as rice are in sufficient supply, and citizens do not have to worry about buying blindly.

From the 15th, Hong Kong restaurants are not allowed to dine from 6pm to 5am the following day. The Secretary for Food and Health Chen Zhaoshi said that if the epidemic worsens, it is not ruled out that restaurants are required to ban dine-in throughout the day and can only take out food to further reduce the flow of people. The catering industry expects that about half of the restaurants will not be able to do takeout business and will temporarily close their business. It is estimated that this month's losses will be as high as HK$3 billion. Because the "restriction order" has been tightened to less than 4 people, Hong Kong's tourism industry has also returned to the difficult period of "zero income". Su Ziyang, general manager of Xinhua Tourism, said that about 400 guests have canceled reservations for local tours in the past two days. Zongyou said that in response to the tightening of the "restriction order", it decided to cancel the "Hong Kong One Day Tour" tour group until the 28th of this month. The director of the Hong Kong University Center for Infectious Diseases and Infectious Diseases said on the 15th that the public must recognize the seriousness of the local epidemic. The number of locally diagnosed cases on the 5th to 14th has exceeded the number in March, and patients aged 60 and above accounted for about 1/4. He urged the public to minimize eating out and suppress the epidemic in the community, otherwise the community will soon fall out of control. (Yang Weimin)

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071600585.htm


Senior technical officer of Housing Department tests positive for COVID-19
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The Housing Department today (July 16) learnt that a senior technical officer has tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

The officer works on the seventh floor of Block 3 at the Hong Kong Housing Authority Headquarters in Ho Man Tin. The floor concerned is not a public floor and is not open to the public. He last performed duties on July 13. Since his family member was identified as a close contact of a confirmed case, he was tested for COVID-19 in a private clinic on his own accord and preliminarily tested positive for the disease, and he was then admitted to hospital. The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) today advised that he tested positive.

The officer concerned has no recent travel history. He has been wearing facial masks when performing duties, his body temperature was normal and he followed relevant disease prevention measures at work. The department will continue to closely co-operate with the CHP on disease prevention measures. The workplace of the officer concerned, including the common areas, has been fully cleaned and sterilised in accordance with the guidelines of the CHP.

During the pandemic, the department has been strictly implementing various disease prevention measures, including measuring the body temperature of people entering the buildings, providing facial masks and other personal protective equipment for staff, and requesting staff to wear facial masks when in contact with others and at public places. Cleaning and sterilising measures of the working environment of the department have also been stepped up.

The department will continue to maintain close liaison with the CHP and co-operate with its quarantine work.



Ends/Thursday, July 16, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:30

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071600506.htm


Public hospitals daily update on COVID-19 cases
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

As at noon today (July 16), 13 COVID-19 confirmed patients (case numbers: 1206, 1211, 1217, 1219, 1223, 1225, 1240, 1267, 1279, 1293, 1326, 1367 and 1382) were discharged from hospital in the past 24 hours. So far, a total of 1,254 patients with confirmed or probable infections have been discharged.

At present, there are 639 negative pressure rooms in public hospitals with 1,186 negative pressure beds activated. A total of 319 confirmed patients are currently hospitalised in 13 hospitals, among which six patients are in critical condition (case numbers: 595, 1315, 1338, 1346, 1401 and 1428), 10 are in serious condition (case numbers: 1269, 1322, 1348, 1365, 1424, 1439, 1443, 1470, 1472 and 1562) and the remaining 303 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/Thursday, July 16, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:23

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071600800.htm




CHP investigates 67 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19
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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) has announced that as of 4pm today (July 16), the CHP was investigating 67 additional confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), taking the number of cases to 1 656 in Hong Kong so far (comprising 1 655 confirmed cases and one probable case).

The newly reported cases announced today involve 34 males and 33 females aged between four and 94 years. Among them, four had travel history during the incubation period.

In view of an upsurge of confirmed cases in Hong Kong recently and the tight capacity of quarantine centres, the DH has reviewed the quarantine facilities and available capacity. After risk assessment, the DH considered that a certain number of units in quarantine centres must be reserved for quarantining of close contacts of confirmed patients as priority in view of their higher risk of infection. For Hong Kong residents returning from places with high risk of COVID-19 (including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal and South Africa) via the Hong Kong International Airport, after excluding confirmed patients and their close contacts on arrival, the rest of them with negative test results are of relatively lower risk of infection. Hence, starting today (July 16), if the capacity of quarantine centres is saturated, the DH might arrange to send this group of people, who need to be quarantined but are of relatively lower risk, to undergo quarantine in hotel rooms rented by the Government when circumstances warrant.

The DH will assess the capacity of quarantine centres every day. The above arrangement will be implemented if the number of returnees from the above high-risk areas exceeds the capacity of quarantine centres available for use that day as these quarantine centres must be reserved for close contacts of confirmed patients as priority.

Upon arrival, these returnees will first have to collect their deep throat saliva samples at the DH's Temporary Specimen Collection Centre at AsiaWorld-Expo. If the test result is negative, they will be transferred in coaches to hotel rooms to complete their 14-day compulsory quarantine. If the test result is positive, they will be sent to hospitals for treatment while their close contacts will be sent to quarantine centres.

The DH will issue quarantine orders to these returnees in accordance with the Compulsory Quarantine of Persons Arriving at Hong Kong from Foreign Places Regulation (Cap. 599E). The relevant government department will also arrange electronic wristbands for them. According to quarantine orders, they shall neither leave their hotel rooms nor move around in the hotel during the entire quarantine period. Leaving designated rooms will be regarded as a breach of the quarantine order and constitutes a criminal offence. Offenders are subject to a maximum imprisonment for six months and fine of $25,000.

The DH will closely monitor the situation locally and overseas, and will adjust the arrangement in a timely manner if necessary.

As for the local cases, the CHP will distribute deep throat saliva specimen bottles to residents of buildings where the patients live, as well as to those with whom they might have had contact during the infectious period. However, as there are recently a large number of confirmed cases, the relevant testing capacity remained limited even though the DH has earlier procured testing services directly from local private laboratories to enhance public testing capacity. Hence, the CHP will, based on risk assessment, accord priority to people with higher risk (for example, those who live in buildings with more than one unit with confirmed cases of unknown source) when distributing specimen bottles for testing. People are also urged to seek medical attention early even if mild symptoms develop to help prevent the spread of the disease in the community.

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.

In view of the severe epidemic situation, the CHP called on members of the public to avoid going out, having social contact and dining out. They should put on a surgical mask and maintain stringent hand hygiene when they need to go out. As a number of recent cases involve elderly people, the CHP strongly urged the elderly to stay home as far as possible and avoid going out. They should consider asking their family and friends to help with every day tasks such as shopping for basic necessities.

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 16, 2020
Issued at HKT 22:30

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/artic...-swelling-wave


Hong Kong Sees Record 63 Local Virus Cases in Swelling Wave
By Jinshan Hong
July 16, 2020, 4:55 AM EDT

More than half are of unknown origins, raising alarm
City has strictest-ever social distancing measures in place

Hong Kong reported a record 63 local viruses cases on Thursday, the third time in about a week that the city’s new outbreak has breached previous highwater marks.

Of the total confirmed cases, more than half -- 35 -- were of unknown origins, said the city’s health department on Thursday. The new outbreak has now infected over 300 people in less than two weeks, with more than a third of infections unlinked to confirmed cases or existing outbreaks, signaling that hidden chains of transmission are widespread...

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/...e-home-cluster

Hong Kong third wave: elderly patient becomes 11th fatality as city confirms 58 more Covid-19 cases

Latest fatality was a 71-year-old woman with chronic illness who suffered a heart attack and was sent to Ruttonjee Hospital in Wan Chai
Coronavirus cases emerge at Jockey Club Harmony Villa in Wong Chuk Hang, while a bus driver also infected

Lilian Cheng and Victor Ting
Published: 2:07pm, 17 Jul, 2020
Updated: 6:20pm, 17 Jul, 2020

The community spread of Covid-19 continued in Hong Kong on Friday as the city recorded 58 confirmed infections, with a potential new cluster emerging in another elderly care centre, health authorities revealed, while a 71-year-old patient who tested positive died in the afternoon.

At least 12 more cases emerged from clusters in Tsz Wan Shan, including staff working in restaurants at a shopping mall, and some stall owners at a market. Some family members of those infected earlier contracted the virus as well.

The latest cases – 50 local infections and eight imported ones – pushed the city’s tally to 1,713. The latest death is the city’s 11th fatality...

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Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071700561.htm

Public hospitals daily update on COVID-19 cases
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

As at noon today (July 17), 10 COVID-19 confirmed patients (case numbers: 1212, 1213, 1281, 1284, 1303, 1327, 1378, 1384, 1415 and 1460) were discharged from hospital in the past 24 hours. So far, a total of 1,264 patients with confirmed or probable infection have been discharged.

At present, there are 650 negative pressure rooms in public hospitals with 1,207 negative pressure beds activated. A total of 375 confirmed patients are currently hospitalised in 14 hospitals, among which eight patients are in critical condition (case numbers: 595, 1315, 1338, 1346, 1401, 1428, 1562 and 1640), 11 are in serious condition (case numbers: 1269, 1322, 1348, 1365, 1424, 1439, 1443, 1449, 1470, 1485 and 1557) and the remaining 356 patients are in stable condition.

A 71-year-old female patient (case number: 1707) passed away this afternoon. Including this case, 11 COVID-19 patients have passed away in public hospitals so far.

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 17, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:15

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071700663.htm


Government's COVID-19 testing services are not for private use
************************************************** *


A Government spokesman said today (July 17) that the objective of the Government in providing COVID-19 testing services free-of-charge is to encourage members of the public with symptoms to take the test as early as possible. Through early detection and diagnosis of infected persons in the community, coupled with community surveillance for COVID-19, we strive to break the chain of infection as early as possible in order to safeguard public health. The COVID-19 testing services currently provided free-of-charge by the Department of Health and the Hospital Authority cover patients attending the Accident and Emergency Departments of public hospitals, General Out-patient Clinics, public hospitals and private clinics. The Government also arranged testing through private organisations for persons in high-risk and high-exposure groups.

"The Government is committed to enhancing the COVID-19 testing capacity in the public sector. Testing for around 13 000 specimens was completed yesterday (July 16) alone, and the community surveillance arrangement for high-risk and high-exposure groups has already commenced in stages. If a sample tests positive, the Government will notify the person concerned as early as possible and arrange for admission to a public hospital for treatment. If the test result is negative, no certificate of negative result will be given to the person concerned. Likewise, private organisations that carry out community surveillance will not issue certificate of negative result to the person concerned for general or specific purposes," the spokesman said.

The spokesman stressed that if members of the public need to take a COVID-19 test for personal reasons in order to obtain a relevant test result for private use, including immigration purposes, they should arrange testing services on their own. Persons who wish to enter Guangdong should arrange a COVID-19 test with testing institutions recognised by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, as listed in the Annex.

The spokesman reiterated that given the severe situation of the epidemic, members of the public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene as well as an appropriate social distance with other people as far as possible in their daily lives. Members of the public are advised to seek medical advice promptly when feeling unwell. If suspected of being infected, they should proactively make a request to a doctor for testing with a view to achieving early identification, early isolation and early treatment.



Ends/Friday, July 17, 2020
Issued at HKT 20:14

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/...vid-19-cluster

Coronavirus: Hong Kong’s Covid-19 tally surpasses city’s Sars total in 2003 as 64 new infections confirmed on Saturday

Number of people confirmed with Covid-19 in Hong Kong now exceeds the 1,755 figure recorded for severe acute respiratory syndrome, which struck the city in 2003
Sixty of Saturday’s new infections are local as city’s case total climbs to 1,777

Elizabeth Cheung , Gigi Choy and Kanis Leung
Published: 1:34pm, 18 Jul, 2020
Updated: 6:20pm, 18 Jul, 2020

Hong Kong’s Covid-19 case total has surpassed the figure it recorded during the Sars epidemic in 2003 as health authorities on Saturday confirmed 64 new infections.

Of the new coronavirus cases, 60 are locally transmitted, pushing the city’s tally to 1,777 with 12 related deaths.

The number of people confirmed in Hong Kong with Covid-19 now exceeds its 1,755 infected total for the severe acute respiratory syndrome epidemic 17 years ago...

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071800381.htm


QEH announces passing away of COVID-19 patient
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

The spokesperson for Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) today (July 18) announced that a 94-year-old male COVID-19 confirmed patient (case number: 1365) passed away at 10.08am today.

The patient with chronic disease was admitted to QEH Accident and Emergency Department on July 9 due to fever and cough. He was confirmed positive of COVID-19 and transferred to isolation ward for treatment. His condition had deteriorated on July 13. The hospital had communicated with the family about the patient's condition. The patient's family agreed to have Do-Not-Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (DNACPR) if the patient condition further deteriorated. The hospital provided oxygen as supportive treatment to patient. The patient eventually succumbed on today morning.

The hospital was saddened about the passing away of the patient and would offer necessary assistance to his family members.

Including the above case, 12 COVID-19 patients have passed away in public hospitals so far.


Ends/Saturday, July 18, 2020
Issued at HKT 13:38

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Source: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...0071800620.htm


Customs Officer preliminarily tests positive for COVID-19
**********************************************


The Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) today (July 18) learned that a Customs Officer has preliminarily tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

The officer works on 23/F of the Customs Headquarters Building in North Point. The floor is not a public floor and is not open to the public.

The officer is responsible for logistic duties. He last performed his duties this Thursday (July 16) and felt unwell yesterday (July 17) morning. After seeking medical treatment at a private clinic, he was notified last night to have preliminarily tested positive for COVID-19. Isolation treatment in hospital is being arranged for the officer.

The officer has no recent travel history. He has been wearing surgical masks when performing duties and has properly maintained social distancing with people he has had contact with. His body temperature was normal when undergoing temperature screening during work.

The department has been closely co-operating with the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) on the CHP's epidemiological investigations. The colleagues working with the officer are asymptomatic. Customs has liaised with the CHP for arranging those officers to undergo COVID-19 testing. The concerned floor has also been arranged to undergo a thorough cleaning and sterilisation.

C&ED is highly concerned about the epidemic of COVID-19 and has remained highly vigilant since the epidemic broke out. Relevant hygienic measures for infectious diseases provided by the CHP have been strictly adopted. All officers have their body temperatures checked before performing their duties. They are also required to wear proper personal protective equipment.

The department has stepped up the cleaning and sterilising measures for all working locations and will remind all officers to strictly comply with the hygienic measures of infectious diseases provided by the CHP. The officers will also be reminded to consult a doctor promptly if they have any discomforting symptoms.



Ends/Saturday, July 18, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:25