Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January to March 2009)

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent CA-MRSA (2/26/2009) [CHP]

In response to media enquiries on community-associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA), a drug resistant bacterium, a spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said today (February 26) that the CHP does not have plans to conduct routine CA-MRSA screening in any segment of the community.


The spokesman reiterated that good personal hygiene practices were the most effective way to prevent CA-MRSA infection.

The spokesman said a total of 274 cases were reported to the CHP in 2008.

The majority of these cases were Chinese (59%).

Caucasians, Filipino and other ethnicities comprised 13%, 14% and 14% of the cases respectively.

Although certain ethnic groups appeared to be over-represented in the notified cases, the reasons are not clear.

"Further studies are needed to explain the observation," the spokesman said.

The spokesman called on the public to observe the following measures to prevent CA-MRSA infection:

1. Maintain good personal hygiene.
2. Keep hands clean by washing thoroughly and frequently with liquid soap and water, or by cleaning them properly with alcohol handrub.
3. Wear gloves whenever it is necessary to touch grossly soiled objects, (e.g. saliva, pus discharge of other household members or pets), and wash hands thoroughly afterwards. This is especially important for immunocompromised persons.
4. Avoid sharing personal items such as unlaundered towels, clothing or uniforms and razors.
5. Avoid direct contact with wounds or anything contaminated by wound secretions.
6. Clean any broken skin such as abrasions or cuts immediately and cover properly with waterproof adhesive bandages. Wash hands before and after touching wounds. Consult a doctor promptly if symptoms of infections develop.
7. Avoid contact sports and visiting public bath houses if you have an open wound.
8. Maintain environmental cleanliness and sterilise reused equipment in public places such as sports centres and public bathrooms.
9. Do not take antibiotics indiscriminately. Antibiotics should be prescribed by registered medical practitioners and the patient should complete the whole course of treatment according to the prescribed dosage and frequency.
10. Observe strict hand hygiene and wear a mask (for those with respiratory symptoms) if taking antibiotics.

For further information on CA-MRSA, please visit the CHP website: www.chp.gov.hk .
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: Tuna fillet found to contain histamine (2/27/2009) [CFS]

A high level of histamine was found in a frozen tuna fillet sample recently tested by the Centre for Food Safety (CFS).


The testing was a follow-up action taken by CFS in response to a suspected food poisoning case notified by Centre for Health Protection.

This was a case of histamine food poisoning affecting one person after consumption of tuna in a restaurant on Lamma Island.

''The tuna fillet of the restaurant concerned was provided by supplier, LEO's Fine Food Co. Ltd. The current tested sample was taken from that supplier and the level of histamine detected was 3,900ppm. At the level detected, histamine may cause burning sensation around the mouth, facial flushing, sweating, nausea and headache a few minutes to several hours following the ingestion of fish that contain high levels of histamine.
But these symptoms will normally disappear in 12 hours,'' a CFS spokesman said.

''According to the supplier's information, this batch of tuna fillet, totalling 88 boxes (25kg per box), was imported from Vietnam. The fillet was supplied to food premises or distributors directly, and not for retail sale. There are 65 boxes still kept at the cold store.''

''The CFS has marked and sealed these 65 boxes of fillet, which will be destroyed later. The Centre is following up possible distribution points with the supplier and has also informed the trade of the incident.''

''The CFS has informed the Vietnamese authorities of the test result and would continue to closely monitor the situation.''

''Histamine is commonly found in fish of the Scombridae family, such as tuna, sardines and mackerel, as a result of bacterial spoilage. Formation of histamine in fish is usually related to improper control of temperature during storage.''

The spokesman advised the trade and the public to heed the following to prevent scombroid fish poisoning:
*Purchase fish and their products, especially fish of the Scombridae family, from reliable sources;
*Store chilled fish at four degrees Celsius or below and frozen fish at -18 degrees Celsius or below to prevent spoilage; and
*Maintain good personal hygiene and prevent cross contamination during preparation.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: CHP investigating a noroviral gastroenteritis outbreak (3/2/2009) [CHP]

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 2) reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent noroviral gastroenteritis.


The appeal was made following CHP's investigation into a gastroenteritis outbreak affecting 20 pupils of a kindergarten in Central.

The affected were all females aged between three and four.

They developed symptoms of gastroenteritis, including diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain and fever, since February 25. Fourteen of them sought medical treatment while four others were admitted to private hospitals.

Three of the hospitalised children have been discharged. All of the affected are in stable condition.

The stool sample of one of the hospitalised children yielded positive results for norovirus.

Officers of the CHP have visited the kindergarten and provided health instructions to the staff concerning proper disinfection, proper disposal of vomitus and faecal matter, as well as personal and food hygiene.

The CHP will closely monitor the school for further cases and provide health advice when necessary.

The spokesman said norovirus infection could be transmitted via food or water contaminated with the virus, contact with vomitus or faeces or any objects contaminated by the virus.

''Proper management and adequate disinfection of vomitus and faecal matter is of crucial importance in preventing and controlling the spread of the disease,'' he said.

To prevent the spread of viral gastroenteritis, the public should observe the following precautions:
- wash hands thoroughly before handling food and eating and after using the toilet or handling vomitus or faecal matter;
- wear gloves when disposing of vomitus or faeces, and wash hands afterwards;
- clean and disinfect contaminated areas or items promptly and thoroughly with household bleach diluted at a ratio of 1 : 50 (by adding 1 part of household bleach to 49 parts of water);
- maintain good indoor ventilation;
- make sure that food, particularly seafood and shellfish, is cooked thoroughly.

Members of the public can obtain more information on the prevention of viral gastroenteritis from the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Unit hotline, 2833 0111.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: Influenza outbreak in child care centre under close watch (3/2/2009) [CHP]

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 2) urged members of the public and management of institutions to take preventive measures against influenza-like illness (ILI) by observing strict environmental and personal hygiene.


The appeal was made following the CHP's investigation into a report of an influenza outbreak in Shek Kip Mei Pre-school Centre - The Spastics Association of Hong Kong, affecting a total of 13 people.

Investigation by the CHP revealed that the school has 54 students and 28 staff members, of whom 10 students and three staff members, aged from two to 40, developed symptoms of ILI, including fever, cough and sore throat, since February 25.

Twelve of them sought medical treatment.

A six-year-old boy was admitted to United Christian Hospital and is now in stable condition.

Clinical specimens of the student tested positive for Influenza A.

A CHP spokesman said, "To prevent further spreading of diseases, the CHP has advised the school to suspend classes for a week from tomorrow (March 3) for thorough disinfection."

CHP officials have visited the school and provided health advice to the staff.

To prevent respiratory tract infection, the public are advised to adopt the following measures:
* Build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* Maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands after sneezing or coughing, and wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation.

Members of the public, particularly children, elderly people and those with chronic diseases, should wear face masks and consult doctors promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: Doctors required to report cases of Chikungunya fever and EV 71 infection (3/4/2009) [CHP]

Medical practitioners are reminded to be on the alert for cases of chikungunya fever and enterovirus 71 (EV 71) infection and that, starting from March 6, they are required by law to notify the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) of these conditions.


A DH spokesman said the Director of Health had ordered that the diseases be included on the list of statutory notifiable infectious diseases, bringing to 47 the total number of infectious diseases on the list in the Prevention and Control of Disease Ordinance (Cap. 599).

The order will be gazetted on Friday (March 6), he said.

"Given the recent major outbreaks of chikungunya fever in neighbouring areas, as well as the apparent increase of EV 71 infections in Hong Kong in 2008 and its potentially serious complications, we consider that there is a pressing need to strengthen the surveillance of these two diseases in the community to ensure prompt implementation of effective public health preventive and control measures," the spokesman said.

The CHP has sent letters to all medical practitioners to inform them of the legislative amendment and reporting criteria.

Forms of notification are available at Central Notification Office (CENO) On-line, the web-based reporting system of the CHP (http://www.chp.gov.hk/ceno).

Doctors may also download the form and report by fax at 2477 2770.

Enquiries about reporting can be made to CENO at 2477 2772.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: A case of Streptococcus suis infection under investigation (3/4/2009) [CHP]

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (March 4) investigating this year's first reported case of laboratory confirmed infection of Streptococcus suis (a kind of bacteria isolated from pigs).


The case involves a 56-year-old woman, who developed fever and confusion on March 1 and was admitted to Queen Mary Hospital the next day.

She is still in the hospital in stable condition.

A CHP spokesman said the patient had no travel history recently.

She had a history of handling raw pork while preparing food at home. All her home contacts did not have any symptoms.

A total of six reported cases of Streptococcus suis infection were reported in 2008. Six cases were reported in 2007 and eight cases were reported in 2006.

The spokesman said Streptococcus suis infection may present as meningitis (inflammation of the membrane enclosing the brain), septicaemia (blood stream infection), and less commonly, endocarditis (inflammation of the inner lining of the heart chambers), arthritis and bronchopneumonia (a kind of lung infection involving the bronchioles).

Streptococcus suis infection can be treated with appropriate antibiotics.

To prevent the disease, members of the public are advised to always observe personal and environmental hygiene practices.

They should avoid contact with pigs that are sick or dead from diseases and their excreta or body fluid.

If contact with pigs or raw pork is necessary, one should:
* Use protective gloves;
* Wash hands after handling pigs or raw pork; and
* Clean and cover all wounds properly.

Members of the public with suspected symptoms should consult their doctors as soon as possible and report their relevant exposure histories. They can obtain more information on Streptococcus suis from the CHP website (www.chp.gov.hk). They can also obtain the latest information on infectious diseases in other places on the department's Hong Kong Travellers' Health Service website (www.travelhealth.gov.hk).
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: Boy with flu symptoms in special care centre passed away (3/4/2009) [CHP]

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health continues to investigate the influenza outbreak at a special child care centre in Shek Kip Mei.


The school has been suspended lessons for one week starting March 3 for thorough disinfection.

A total of 12 students and three staff members of the school developed symptoms of influenza-like illness since February 25.

One of the affected children, a five-year-old boy, was admitted to Yan Chai Hospital today (March 4).

He had developed fever and cough since February 26.

The boy passed away this afternoon.

He had history of spinal muscular atrophy, a chronic neuromuscular disorder.

Initial laboratory tests on the boy's clinical specimen yielded positive result to influence A virus. His family members did not have similar symptoms. The case will be referred to the Coroner's court for investigation.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: SFH attaches great importance to biosecurity of local chicken farms (3/5/2009) [SFH]

The Secretary for Food and Health, Dr York Chow, said today (March 5) that Hong Kong should continue to stay on full alert and stringently implement various preventive measures against avian influenza which posed an imminent threat to the world community.


"To help achieve such a task, the biosecurity measures of local chicken farms will be vital to minimise the risk of avian influenza," Dr Chow said.

He was commenting on the Epidemiology Report of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) on the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 last December in a chicken farm in Ha Tsuen, Yuen Long.

He said:
"The findings of the report show that stringent biosecurity measures play a crucial role in preventing outbreaks of avian influenza in local farms."

Dr Chow noted the report made a number of recommendations for improving the biosecurity standards and measures of local farms, such as stepping up inspection on farms and blood tests on chickens to ensure the health of chickens and reduce the chance of farm workers being infected with avian influenza.

He added that the effective implementation of these new measures would hinge on the joint efforts by the chicken farmers and the Government which could enhance the farms' capability in safeguarding against avian influenza.

He said:
"I have asked the AFCD to maintain close liaison with chicken farmers when implementing the recommendations and render assistance to them to adapt to the new measures.It is hoped that the new measures can be implemented smoothly and as soon as possible."

In addition, the Government will carry out preventive measures to rigorously guard against avian influenza at various levels, including the import of live chickens, wholesale market and retail outlets, with a view to protecting public health. The Food and Health Bureau set up the Investigation Group on Epidemiological Study, chaired by the Assistant Director of the AFCD, Dr Thomas Sit, following the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 at a chicken farm in Yuen Long.

The investigation group released the report today and made a number of recommendations to further enhance the biosecurity measures of local farms to guard against avian influenza.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: Investigation group releases report on avian influenza outbreak in Yuen Long chicken farm (3/5/2009) [SFH]

The Investigation Group on Epidemiological Study appointed by the Secretary for Food and Health today (March 5) released its report on the investigation into the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 outbreak in a chicken farm in Ha Tsuen, Yuen Long, in December 2008.


The investigation group examined the details of the outbreak, revisited the regulatory regime of poultry farms, analysed the virus recovered from the index farm and test samples taken from other local farms, and recommended improvement in biosecurity measures for the index farm and other local farms.

Outlining the report findings on the avian influenza outbreak at a press conference today, the convenor of the investigation group, Dr Thomas Sit, said, "The investigation group noted that the outbreak was confined to the index farm in Ha Tsuen. The outbreak was detected early to enable immediate action to be taken to prevent further spread of the disease. There was no indication of spread of infection to other farms."

Genetic analyses showed that the virus belongs to the family Clade 2.3.4, a clade which is commonly found in the south China region.

The virus was most closely related to and shared a common ancestry with isolates detected in poultry retail markets in Hong Kong in June 2008 and a dead wild bird found in Tsing Yi in March 2008.

No mutation associated with virulence in mammals was found.

"As with many epidemiological studies of this nature, it is difficult to determine the exact cause of the outbreak. The investigation group considered that the H5N1 virus was most likely to have been introduced to the farm by wild birds. Droppings of wild birds could have contaminated the dust and dirt near the entrance of one of the two affected sheds which was subsequently blown into the shed area during windy days. Once the virus had gained entry, farm workers could have contributed to its spread to the other shed via contaminated hands/gloves and/or clothing," Dr Sit explained.

Also speaking at the press conference, the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, Miss Cheung Siu-hing, noted that the investigation had revealed some biosecurity vulnerabilities and breaches on the index farm, including wild bird protection, and possible non-compliance by workers with biosecurity measures (including hand/glove hygiene) relating to entry into the chicken sheds.

The investigation group recommended the following measures for improving the biosecurity on the index farm:
* modify the structure of one of the affected sheds so that the shed area is fully covered by its roof and add a solid partition on the side facing north to protect against wind gusts;
* cover all open soak away pits and wells to avoid gathering of aquatic birds on the farm; and
* improve bird protection facilities.

The investigation group also put forward improvements to biosecurity measures for all poultry farms to strengthen the procedures for prevention of avian influenza infection, which include:
* further tightening of biosecurity through tailor-made biosecurity plans, record keeping in standard templates, provision of hand washing facilities and refresher courses;
* facilitating early detection by increasing the inspection frequency and sampling size of blood tests for vaccinated chickens; and
* preventing spread of avian influenza through scattered distribution of sentinels and segregating the operations relating to the rearing of breeder and broiler flocks.

"The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has taken on board the recommendations and will facilitate the implementation of enhanced biosecurity on local farms. Discussions and planning with individual farmers are already underway.

"Biosecurity measures on the farms are one of the most important preventive measures against the threat of avian influenza virus. We call on the farmers to stay vigilant and comply with the biosecurity requirements at all times. The AFCD will continue to work with them and provide the necessary support," Miss Cheung said.

The investigation group's convenor was the Assistant Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation (Inspection & Quarantine), Dr Thomas Sit. Members of the group included the Head of the Department of Microbiology of the University of Hong Kong, Professor Yuen Kwok-yung; Head of the Laboratory Animal Unit of the University of Hong Kong, Dr Lo King-shun; and representatives of the AFCD, Department of Health and Food and Environmental Hygiene Department.

The full report has been uploaded onto the AFCD's website, www.afcd.gov.hk, for public viewing.
-

View Original Article

 

[HenryN]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="430"><tbody><tr><td class="theme_title" align="right" width="420">March 6, 2009 </td> </tr> <tr> <td class="theme_small_title"> Avian flu </td> </tr> <tr> <td>

</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="theme_news_header"> Chicken carcass H5N1-positive
</td> </tr> <tr> <td>

</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="theme_text" align="left" valign="top"> <table background="/NR/ebulletin/Images/en/themes/HealthAndCommunity/poll_background.gif" border="0" bordercolor="red" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" width="95"><tbody><tr><td width="95">

</td></tr> <tr><td width="95">
</td></tr> </tbody></table>
A chicken carcass found in Tung Ping Chau has been confirmed to be H5N1-positive, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department says.

The carcass was found floating in the sea off Tung Ping Chau's Kang Lau Shek on March 2. It was highly decomposed when found and required a series of confirmatory tests for avian influenza. Test results available today confirmed that the bird was H5N1 positive.

There are no poultry farms within three kilometres of where the bird was found. No unauthorised keeping of poultry has been observed during inspections.

People should call 1823 if they come across sick or dead birds.


http://www.news.gov.hk/en/category/healthandcommunity/090306/html/090306en05006.htm

</td></tr></tbody></table>

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: Hospital Authority follow-up action for drug suspension (3/6/2009) [HA]

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority: In response to the announcement by the Department of Health tonight (March 6) on the immediate suspension of Allopurinol 100mg manufactured by EuroPharm due to contamination, the spokesman for the Hospital Authority (HA) issued the following statement:


The HA has already informed all public hospitals and out-patient clinics to suspend the dispensing of the concerned drug Allopurinol 100mg with immediate effect.

At the same time, alternative source of supplies of 1,450,000 tablets have already been secured which will be delivered in batches starting from tonight. According to the patient records of HA, there are currently 230 high risk patients who are immuno-compromised leukaemia and lymphoma patients, will be contacted by the respective hospitals tomorrow (March 7) for the arrangement of replacing the concerned drug.

The patients' clinical condition will be closely monitored.

Furthermore, there are some other 40,000 general patients with gout or hyperuricemia who are also currently taking the medication.

The HA will arrange for replacement of the concerned drug for the patients from this Sunday (March 8) at the pharmacy of the following 15 public hospitals:
- Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital
- Caritas Medical Centre
- Kwong Wah Hospital
- North District Hospital
- Our Lady of Maryknoll Hospital
- Princess Margaret Hospital
- Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital
- Prince of Wales Hospital
- Pok Oi Hospital
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital
- Queen Mary Hospital
- Tseung Kwan O Hospital
- Tuen Mun Hospital
- United Christian Hospital
- Yan Chai Hospital

The drug replacement service will be available since this Sunday and will last for two weeks.

The operating hours is from 9:00am to 7:00pm on weekdays in the subsequent two weeks.

The replacement is only required for those patients who have been dispensed with the concerned drug as clearly labeled with ''ALLOPURINOL 100MG''.

A hotline 2125 1122 has been jointly set up and operated by the Department of Health and HA to take enquiries from the public and the patients concerned.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: Drug used by patients in cases of mucormycosis found contaminated (3/6/2009) [DH]

The Department of Health (DH) today (March 6) announced that follow-up investigations into patient cases of invasive gastrointestinal mucormycosis in public hospitals last month had revealed that one of the pharmaceutical products prescribed to the patients concerned was found to be contaminated.


A DH spokesman said laboratory tests by the University of Hong Kong (HKU) on four batches of allopurinol (brand name: Purinol, registration no: HK??30662) taken from Queen Mary Hospital were found to be contaminated by a fungus called Rhizopus microsporus.

The batch numbers are 804159, 807199, 808179 and 811015.

The spokesman said Rhizopus microsporus could be found in soil and decaying matter.

''Such kind of fungal infection is not common. Only immunocompromised patients will be infected and suffer from severe infection with high fatality,'' he said.

The drug concerned was manufactured by a local pharmaceutical company called Europharm.

Allopurinol is commonly used to treat hyperuricemia and chronic gout.

It is also commonly used as a prophylactic treatment for patients on chemotherapeutic treatments.

DH inspected the company this afternoon and instructed the operator to immediately withhold all manufacturing operations.

Pharmaceutical and environmental samples from the company have been taken for investigation, including laboratory tests to ascertain HKU's findings.

The company has also been ordered to stop the distribution of all the affected products.

It was reported that some two million tablets of four batches had been delivered to the Hospital Authority, DH,institutions of Correctional Services Department, pharmacies and private medical practitioners.

DH has sent letters to all doctors, hospitals and pharmacists to alert them about the findings.

The spokesman called on members of the public to stop using Purinol, the affected pharmaceutical products produced by the company for the time being.

Pharmacies and drug stores should also stop selling Purinol.

''They have been advised not to use Purinol and should dispense allopurinol manufactured by other manufacturers for the time being. DH has set up a hotline 2125 1122 for public enquiries. The hotline will operate to midnight (March 6)and from 9 am to 5 pm starting tomorrow. Europharm also set up a hotline 2665 3788 for public enquiries.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: Chicken carcass found in Tung Ping Chau confirmed positive for H5N1 virus (3/6/2009) [AFCD]

A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (March 6) that a chicken carcass found in Tung Ping Chau was confirmed to be H5N1 positive after a series of laboratory tests.


The carcass was found floating in the sea off Kang Lau Shek, Tung Ping Chau, on March 2.

It was highly decomposed when found and required a series of confirmatory tests for avian influenza.

Test results available today confirmed that the dead bird was H5N1 positive.

The spokesman said there were no poultry farms within three kilometres of where the dead bird was found. No unauthorised keeping of poultry has been observed during inspections.

"The AFCD has contacted poultry farmers reminding them to strengthen precautionary and biosecurity measures against avian influenza. Pet bird shop owners, licence holders of pet poultry and racing pigeons have also been reminded to take proper precautions," the spokesman said.

The spokesman said the department would conduct frequent inspections of poultry farms, the wholesale market and the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden to ensure that proper precautions against avian influenza had been implemented.

The department would continue its wild bird monitoring and surveillance.

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) will continue to be vigilant over imported live poultry as well as live poultry stalls. It will also remind stall operators to maintain good hygiene.

The Department of Health will enhance health education and distribute health advice leaflets.

The AFCD, the FEHD, the Customs and Excise Department and the Police will strive to deter the illegal import of poultry and birds into Hong Kong to minimise the risk of avian influenza outbreaks brought by imported poultry and birds that have not gone through inspection and quarantine.

All relevant government departments will continue to remain highly vigilant and strictly enforce preventive measures against avian influenza.

"The public can call 1823 Call Centre for follow up if they come across suspicious sick or dead birds, including carcasses of wild birds and poultry," the spokesman said.

Members of the public are reminded to observe good personal hygiene.

They should avoid personal contact with wild birds and live poultry and their droppings.

They should clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them.

Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.

Advice on biosecurity measures for people working in poultry farms, wholesale and retail markets and health advice for the public are available at the "H5N1 Health Advice" of the AFCD's website at www.afcd.gov.hk. The website also includes the latest information on the H5N1 infected birds found in Hong Kong this year.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: A case of human myiasis confirmed (3/7/2009) [CHP]

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health confirmed today (March 7) a human case of myiasis involving a 86-year-old woman and urged members of the public to take measures to guard against the disease caused by maggots of flies.


The patient, living in an elderly home in Cheung Chau, was found to have maggots in the wound of her right foot on March 5 and was admitted to St John Hospital for treatment.

She in now in stable condition.

CHP's investigations revealed that she had no recent travel history.

This is the first case of human myiasis in 2009.

Nine cases were reported in 2008, 14 cases in 2007 and 15 cases in 2006.

Human myiasis cases are caused by parasitic maggots of flies which infest with larvae the superficial wounds and body orifices, such as mouth, ear and nose, of debilitated persons. The larvae feed on the host's dead or living tissue, and may cause serious tissue damage, resulting in loss of function, injury to the skin, secondary invasion and death.

People, especially staff of elderly homes, are advised to take note of the following measures:
* All wounds should be treated immediately. Wound fluids and blood are known to be attractive to some species of flies.

To avoid myiasis infestation, wounds should be cleaned and dressed properly;
* Fly infestation can be avoided by proofing measures, including installation of fly screening materials to human dwelling places, dressing of wounds and maintaining good ventilation;
* Observe good personal and environmental hygiene;
* Staff of elderly homes should ensure good environmental hygiene, be alert to inmates developing symptoms of the disease and arrange for inmates feeling unwell to seek medical consultation promptly.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: A case of EV71 confirmed (3/9/2009) [CHP]

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating the first confirmed case of Enterovirus-71 (EV71) infection this year and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.


A CHP spokesman said today (March 9) that the case involved a two-year-old girl who developed oral ulcers and rash over hands and feet on March 4.

She sought medical treatment from a doctor and did not require hospitalisation. She is now in stable condition. Her stool specimen was tested positive for EV71.

Nine other children in the nursery the girl attended developed Hand Foot Mouth Disease symptoms since March 2.

All of them sought medical treatment. One of them was hospitalized and has been discharged.

There were 35, 8, 16, 12 and 98 cases in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.

For more information, the public may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: CHP advises nursery school to suspend classes (3/10/2009) [CHP]

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a second confirmed case of Enterovirus-71 (EV71) infection this year involving a 2-year-old boy and has advised the nursery school he attends to suspend classes for two weeks.


A CHP spokesman said today (March 10) that the boy had developed oral ulcers and rash over hands and feet since March 5. He was admitted to Tseung Kwan O Hospital earlier and has been discharged. He is now in stable condition. His throat swab was tested positive for EV71.

Fourteen other children in the nursery school the boy attended, HKSPC Sze Wu Shu Min Nursery School, had developed symptoms of Hand Foot Mouth Disease since March 2.

All of them sought medical treatment and are in stable condition.

One of them, a 2-year-old girl, was confirmed to have been infected with EV-71 yesterday.

The spokesman said that in view of the increase in the number of cases, CHP advised the school to suspend classes for two weeks from tomorrow (March 11) to March 24 inclusive for thorough disinfection.

"This is a measure to prevent further spreading of the disease in the school."
"CHP will closely monitor the situation. Parents are advised to pay attention to the health condition of their children, and to remind them to observe good personal and environmental hygiene," he said.

There were 16, 12 and 98 cases of EV71 in 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.

For more information, people may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: DH closely monitors recall of pharmaceutical products (3/10/2009) [DH]

In response to media enquiries on the recall of some pharmaceutical products by Marching Pharmaceutical Ltd, a local drug manufacturer, a spokesman for the Department of Health (DH) said today (March 11) that DH was investigating a complaint against the company regarding the expiry dates of some of its products.


Initial investigations by DH on February 26 revealed that the label expiry dates of a total of 216 types of pharmaceutical products were not substantiated by laboratory data.

However, the company already began to recall the products which were still on sale in the market before the investigation was completed.

It also applied for de-registration of 120 of the 216 products for commercial reasons.

The application is still under process.

The spokesman said every application for de-registration of pharmaceutical product would be scrutinized followed by a recall from the applicant, as the possession or sale of any un-registered drug is an offence.

He said all recalled products must be reprocessed to ensure their safety, efficacy and quality before putting on sale in the market again.

The products being recalled are low-risk drugs.

Most of which are non-prescription products including vitamins, minerals, cough and cold preparations and the remaining are prescription topical preparations such as skin creams.

DH will closely monitor the actions taken in every recall exercise to ensure that all the necessary steps were effectively and efficiently adhered to.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: A case of EV71 confirmed (3/11/2009) [CHP]

Further to the two confirmed Enterovirus-71 (EV71) cases reported earlier, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating the third confirmed case this year and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.


A CHP spokesman said today (March 11) that the latest case involved a three-year-old girl who developed symptoms of Hand Foot Mouth Disease (HFMD) such as oral ulcers and rash over hands and feet on March 3.

She sought medical treatment and did not require hospitalisation. She is now in stable condition.

Her stool specimen was tested positive for EV71.

Her father also developed symptoms of HFMD. He consulted a doctor and did not require hospitalisation. His condition is now stable.

All the three confirmed cases of EV71 attended HKSPC Sze Wu Shu Min Nursery School.

Thirteen other children in the same school had also developed HFMD symptoms since March 2.

All of them sought medical treatment and are in stable condition.

The school has suspended classes starting today until March 24 for thorough disinfection.

For more information, members of the public may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: Chicken carcass found in Tung Ping Chau confirmed positive for H5N1 virus (3/12/2009) [AFCD]

A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (March 12) that a chicken carcass found in Tung Ping Chau was confirmed to be H5N1 positive after a series of laboratory tests.


The carcass was found floating in the sea off Kang Lau Shek, Tung Ping Chau, on March 2. It was highly decomposed when found and required a series of confirmatory tests for avian influenza. Test results available today confirmed that the dead bird was H5N1 positive.

AFCD announced on March 6 that a chicken carcass found at the same location was confirmed to be H5N1 positive. No more poultry carcass was discovered there since March 2.

The spokesman said there were no poultry farms within three kilometres of where the dead bird was found.

No unauthorised keeping of poultry has been observed during inspections.

"The AFCD has contacted poultry farmers reminding them to strengthen precautionary and biosecurity measures against avian influenza. Pet bird shop owners, licence holders of pet poultry and racing pigeons have also been reminded to take proper precautions," the spokesman said.

The spokesman said the department would conduct frequent inspections of poultry farms, the wholesale market and the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden to ensure that proper precautions against avian influenza had been implemented.

The department would continue its wild bird monitoring and surveillance.

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) will continue to be vigilant over imported live poultry as well as live poultry stalls. It will also remind stall operators to maintain good hygiene.

The Department of Health will enhance health education and distribute health advice leaflets.

The AFCD, the FEHD, the Customs and Excise Department and the Police will strive to deter the illegal import of poultry and birds into Hong Kong to minimise the risk of avian influenza outbreaks brought by imported poultry and birds that have not gone through inspection and quarantine. All relevant government departments will continue to remain highly vigilant and strictly enforce preventive measures against avian influenza.

"The public can call 1823 Call Centre for follow up if they come across suspicious sick or dead birds, including carcasses of wild birds and poultry," the spokesman said.

Members of the public are reminded to observe good personal hygiene. They should avoid personal contact with wild birds and live poultry and their droppings. They should clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them. Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.

Advice on biosecurity measures for people working in poultry farms, wholesale and retail markets and health advice for the public are available at the "H5N1 Health Advice" of the AFCD's website at www.afcd.gov.hk. The website also includes the latest information on the H5N1 infected birds found in Hong Kong this year.
-

View Original Article

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

Hong Kong: CHP urges vigilance against community-associated MRSA (3/12/2009) [CHP]

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 12) called on people to be vigilant against infection from community-associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) - a drug resistant bacterium.


The appeal was made following the CHP's investigation into a confirmed CA-MRSA case involving a 25-year-old man living in Sha Tin.

The man presented with fever, chills and rigour on February 16 and later developed night sweating, headache and right chest pain.

The patient was admitted to Prince of Wales Hospital on February 27 and was diagnosed to have a liver abscess. He is now in the hospital in stable condition. The pus from his liver abscess grew CA-MRSA.

The CHP's investigations showed that the patient's household contacts did not develop any symptoms of CA-MRSA.

MRSA is a type of bacteria that is resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics. It is a common infection worldwide. In recent years, many countries observed MRSA infections in healthy individuals who had not been hospitalised or stayed in other healthcare facilities or institutions, nor received medical procedures in the past one year prior to onset of symptoms.

They are known as CA-MRSA infections and usually have special patterns of antibiotic resistance.

It is widely recognised that indiscriminate use of antibiotics may contribute to antibiotics resistance.

People are advised not to use antibiotics without medical advice.

If they are advised by doctors to take antibiotics, they should take the medicine according to the prescribed frequency and dosage.

People are advised to observe good personal hygiene including washing hands with soap frequently.

For further information on CA-MRSA, please visit the CHP website: www.chp.gov.hk.
-

View Original Article