6 March 2015
The Department of Health (DH) is today (March 6) closely monitoring 10 additional cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), and hence called on the public to stay alert and maintain good personal, food and environmental hygiene during travel.
"The number of MERS cases reported by KSA has been on the rise in the past two months. The situation is similar to the increase observed in the first few months of 2014, which showed increased transmission from a primary animal source (most likely camels or camel products) to humans and further human-to-human transmission in hospitals. Cases exported to other areas by travellers, migrant workers or pilgrims are also likely. The health-care sector and the public should pay special attention," a spokesman for the DH said.
According to the WHO, among the seven male and three female patients aged from 24 to 84, five had underlying illnesses. They developed symptoms between February 12 and 22. Seven patients are in a critical condition while three others are in a stable condition. Three patients were contacts of previously confirmed patients.
In addition, two previously confirmed patients died.
To date, 1 040 laboratory-confirmed MERS cases have been reported to the WHO globally, including at least 383 deaths.
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the DH is seeking more information on the cases from the WHO and the relevant health authority. The CHP will remain vigilant and work closely with the WHO as well as overseas and neighbouring health authorities to monitor the latest developments.
"We strongly advise travel agents organising tours to the Middle East not to arrange camel rides and activities involving camel contact, which may increase the risk of infection. In addition, travellers are reminded to avoid going to farms, barns, or markets with camels, and avoid contact with animals (especially camels), birds, poultry or sick people during travel," the spokesman said.
"Scientific studies have supported the premise that camels serve as the primary source of MERS Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infecting humans. A study further suggested that human MERS-CoV infections could be transmitted through close contact with infected camels," the spokesman added.
Locally, the DH's surveillance mechanism with public and private hospitals, practising doctors and at boundary control points is firmly in place. Suspected cases identified will be sent to public hospitals for isolation and management until their specimens test negative for MERS-CoV.
"MERS is a statutorily notifiable infectious disease and the CHP's Public Health Laboratory Services Branch is capable of detecting the virus. No human cases have been recorded so far in Hong Kong," the spokesman said.
"The Government will be as transparent as possible in the dissemination of information. Whenever there is a suspected case, particularly involving patients with travel history to the Middle East, the CHP will release information to the public as soon as possible," the spokesman added.
Early identification of MERS-CoV is important, but not all cases can be detected in a timely manner, especially mild or atypical cases. Health-care workers (HCWs) should maintain vigilance and adhere to strict infection control measures while handling suspected or confirmed cases to reduce the risk of transmission to other patients, HCWs or visitors. Regular education should be provided.
Travellers returning from the Middle East who develop respiratory symptoms should wear face masks, seek medical attention and report their travel history to the doctor. HCWs should arrange MERS-CoV testing for them. Patients' lower respiratory tract specimens should be tested when possible and repeat testing should be undertaken when clinical and epidemiological clues strongly suggest MERS.
Travellers are reminded to take heed of personal, food and environmental hygiene:
The public may visit the pages below for more information and health advice:
Tour leaders and tour guides operating overseas tours are advised to refer to the CHP's health advice on MERS ( www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/26551.html ).