30 Jul 2009
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a case of invasive Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infection and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.
A spokesman for the CHP said today (July 30) the case affected a two-year-old girl who has underlying congenital problems and has been staying in Caritas Medical Centre since October 2007. She developed fever and tachycardia on July 23. Her blood culture grew Hib. She is now in stable condition.
The spokesman noted that Hib is a bacteria which may cause meningitis and other infections in children, including pneumonia, epiglottis and septicemia.
"Hib infections usually occur in children aged below five years. The risk of disease among older children is relatively low," he said.
To prevent infection, members of the public are advised to adopt the following measures:
1) observe personal hygiene;
2) keep hands clean and wash hands properly;
3) wash hands when they are dirtied by respiratory secretions e.g. after sneezing;
4) cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose nasal and mouth discharge properly;
5) do not share eating and drinking utensils and wash them thoroughly after use; and
6) avoid going to overcrowded places if feeling unwell.
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.