First human case of B virus infection recorded in Hong Kong

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has reported the first human case of B virus infection in Hong Kong. 

The case was documented in their 2024 Year in Review, which was published on the Communicable Diseases Watch website.

The patient, a 37-year-old man with previously good health, was bitten by wild monkeys in Kam Shan Country Park in late February 2024. 

He began exhibiting symptoms such as fever and confusion and was admitted to a hospital on March 21, 2024. The patient required intensive care following his admission.

Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the B virus in his cerebrospinal fluid, leading to a clinical diagnosis of B virus encephalitis. 

The man's condition deteriorated, and he developed shock on June 17, 2024. He passed away the following day, approximately four months after the initial monkey bite.

In response to this incident, the CHP issued a press release on April 5, 2024, to alert the public and enhance surveillance measures. B virus infection was added to the list of "Other communicable diseases of topical public health concern."

Additionally, the CHP disseminated case definitions and reporting criteria to medical practitioners through letters. 

The agency also enhanced risk communication efforts, providing health information on the CHP website and through social media platforms.