CHP announces one new confirmed melioidosis infection case over past week
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (July 19) said that one new confirmed melioidosis infection case had been recorded in the past week (July 12 to July 18).
The case involves a 66-year-old male with underlying illnesses who lives in Sham Shui Po. He developed intermittent fever and was admitted to Caritas Medical Centre and Prince of Wales Hospital in May and June respectively. He was discharged in late June. He developed a fever again, and a cough with blood-stained sputum in early July and attended Prince of Wales Hospital on July 8 due to worsening symptoms. He was admitted on the same day. He is in stable condition. His clinical sample was confirmed positive for Burkholderia pseudomallei upon testing.
The CHP is investigating the infection source of the case. Epidemiological investigations are ongoing. So far, four melioidosis infection cases have been recorded in Hong Kong this year. In 2023, 17 melioidosis infection cases were recorded.
A spokesman for the CHP reiterated that person-to-person transmission and animal-to-human transmission are rare, but melioidosis bacteria can survive in the local environment. Melioidosis is an endemic disease in Hong Kong and melioidosis cases have been recorded in Hong Kong each year. According to literature, infection cases are more common after typhoons or storms. The bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei of melioidosis in soil and muddy water may become exposed to the ground after typhoons or storms, and the bacteria could spread more easily with strong winds or storms. As such, the number of melioidosis cases may increase.
The CHP reminded members of the public that melioidosis can be spread by contaminated soil and water during and after typhoons and storms. Where practicable, people should stay indoors during typhoons and storms, avoid travelling to areas with potential flooding, and do not wade in or have contact with muddy water and soil. In addition, high-risk individuals should avoid paths near stormwater drains where aerosols may be generated from contaminated water.
Members of the public should also take the following preventive measures against infection:
The CHP appealed to members of the public to seek medical advice if they develop symptoms, in particular people with diabetes or other immunocompromised conditions, in order to receive appropriate medical diagnosis and treatment. For more information on melioidosis, please visit the website of the CHP at www.chp.gov.hk/en/healthtopics/content/24/101110.html.
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