22nd September 2023 – (Hong Kong) The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) has announced that it is currently investigating a confirmed case of Mpox, also known as Monkeypox, in Hong Kong. The public is urged to exercise heightened vigilance and avoid close physical contact with individuals suspected of contracting Mpox. Additionally, high-risk groups are advised to consider receiving Mpox vaccination.
The case involves a 36-year-old male patient with no significant medical history. He experienced a fever on 1st September and subsequently developed a localized rash from 5th September onwards. On 20th September, he visited the Yung Fung Shee Social Hygiene Clinic of the DH. The patient’s condition is stable, and arrangements have been made for him to be admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the patient had a high-risk exposure within Hong Kong during the incubation period and had no travel history. At present, no epidemiological links between this case and previously confirmed cases in Hong Kong have been identified. The CHP continues to conduct epidemiological investigations and will report the case to the World Health Organization.
To date, Hong Kong has recorded a total of 49 confirmed cases of Mpox. The CHP strongly encourages high-risk groups to receive Mpox vaccination as a measure to reduce the risk of infection or the severity of symptoms following infection. Individuals who experience symptoms of Mpox, such as rashes, fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, exhaustion, muscle pain, and severe headaches, or suspect they may be infected, are advised to seek immediate medical attention and treatment. They should also refrain from engaging in activities where others may come into contact with their skin rash or body fluids. It is crucial for the public to maintain good personal and hand hygiene to prevent virus transmission or infection through contact. Close physical contact with individuals or animals suspected of infection should be avoided.
The CHP has established an Mpox telephone hotline (2125 2373) to provide assistance. The hotline operates from Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays, from 9am to 5pm. It enables individuals who suspect or are concerned about potential high-risk contact with confirmed patients, particularly men who have sex with men or those engaging in sexual practices with strangers, to make inquiries and receive relevant health advice.