Press Release

Update on overseas human cases with novel coronavirus infection

25 September 2012

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (September 25) provided an update on its work following the report by World Health Organization (WHO) on human cases with novel coronavirus infection in two patients from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and Qatar.

The CHP is liaising with WHO for updated information. The Centre is also closely monitoring global situation for possible additional cases that may be discovered over the weeks ahead.

To enhance monitoring of the novel coronavirus in Hong Kong, the CHP has set up an enhanced surveillance mechanism with public and private hospitals and the airport for any suspected cases of novel coronavirus infection.

“There is no suspected case from returning travellers from KSA and Qatar so far.

“We will treat each case seriously, even though there will be a few false alarms,” a CHP spokesman said.

The Public Health Laboratory Services Branch under the CHP has the ability to diagnose this infection. Confirmatory testing requires about two days under normal circumstances.

The CHP will closely monitor the progress of further epidemiological investigations and surveillance, and the corresponding advice from the WHO. The WHO does not recommend any travel restrictions at this point.

The spokesman said that letters are being issued to institutions such as schools, childcare centers, elderly homes and tourism industry to inform them of the latest situation and provide them with infection control guidance and related health advice.

The Centre will alert other government departments to gear up related preparations.

“As the situation is dynamic and subject to new discoveries and changes, the CHP will conduct epidemiological assessment frequently in light of the latest evidence, and adjust control measures as necessary,” the spokesman said.