The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has been updated by the Ministry of Health (MOH) this (July 27) evening about the latest situation concerning cases of Streptococcus suis infection in Sichuan.
According to the MOH, as of noon July 27, the total number of people affected was 131. Eight of the reports were laboratory confirmed cases. Among the patients, 27 died and 11 were discharged.
The CHP is maintaining close communication with the MOH and would continue monitoring the situation closely.
The public should always observe good personal, food and environmental hygiene practices during travel especially to rural areas. On return to Hong Kong, they should consult a doctor at once if they feel unwell. They should inform the doctor their travel history so as to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment.
For latest information on infectious diseases in other places and relevant preventive measures, members of the public may visit DH's Hong Kong Travellers' Health Service website http://www.travelhealth.gov.hk.
Travellers can make use of the Service's one-stop travel-related advice, including vaccinations and preventive medications. Details are available in the same website and enquiries can be made by telephoning the Hong Kong Travel Health Centre at 2961 8840 or Kowloon Travel Health Centre at 2150 7235.
Members of the public can obtain more information on Streptococcus suis from the CHP website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
End/Wednesday, July 27, 2005