11 Nov 2010
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (November 11) investigating a case of necrotising fasciitis (flesh-eating disease) involving a 51-year-old man with underlying chronic diseases.
The man, living in Tseung Kwan O, injured his left hand when handling raw crabs at home on November 8. He developed fever with pain,and swelling in his left hand on November 9 and was admitted to Tseung Kwan O Hospital on the same day.
Surgeries were performed on November 9 and 10 to remove the dead tissue. He is currently staying at the Intensive Care Unit in critical condition.
Specimens from his wound grew Vibrio vulnificus, a type of bacteria causing necrotising fasciitis.
The patient has no recent travel history. His home contacts were asymptomatic.
A CHP spokesman said necrotising fasciitis was a serious bacterial infection of the soft tissues and fascia. It could destroy tissues and cause death within 12 to 24 hours after infection.
People are reminded to adopt the following preventive measures:
* Avoid exposure of open wounds or broken skin to seawater or salty water;
* Wounds should be thoroughly cleaned and properly covered;
* Wear thick rubber gloves when handling raw shellfish.
Patients should seek medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms and signs of infection such as increasing redness, pain and swelling.