Man returning from Vietnam diagnosed with measles

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) announced on Saturday that they are investigating an imported case of measles. The public has been reminded to ensure they are fully vaccinated with two doses of the measles vaccine before traveling, to reduce the risk of infection.

The announcement, made yesterday (Mar 1), disclosed that the patient is a 38-year-old male who had good health. He began experiencing diarrhea on February 22 and developed a rash on February 25.

He sought medical attention at the Accident and Emergency Department of Queen Elizabeth Hospital on February 26, where he was admitted for treatment and isolation the same day.

Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the measles virus in his clinical specimen through nucleic acid testing. He remains hospitalized in stable condition.

Upon learning of the case, the CHP immediately initiated an epidemiological investigation.

The patient reported traveling to Vietnam from February 3 to 8, during the measles incubation period. He confirmed that he had no contact with measles patients in Hong Kong, thus classifying this as an imported case. His travel companions are currently showing no symptoms.

It has been reported that he was residing at the Hong Kong Sports Institute (HKSI) during the communicable period.

The CHP is closely coordinating with the HKSI to monitor individuals who may have come into contact with the patient.

Additionally, he visited the HKSI cafeteria from February 22 to 25. In response, the CHP has established an inquiry hotline, 2125 2372, for individuals who were at the cafeteria during those dates. The hotline is available from today until March 7, operating from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 1pm on Sunday.

The investigation into this case is still ongoing.