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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a case of necrotising fasciitis (flesh-eating disease) involving an 85-year-old woman with underlying illness.
The patient lives in Tai O. She presented with pain and swelling over her left index finger since August 4. She was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on August 5 and was diagnosed as having necrotising fasciitis. Above-elbow amputation for the left hand was performed the next day.
The patient is now receiving intensive care and is in critical condition. Her blood culture yielded Vibrio vulnificus, a type of bacteria causing necrotising fasciitis.
She sustained left index finger injury by knife while preparing a fish at home on August 4. Her home contacts are asymptomatic. Investigation is continuing.
A CHP spokesman said necrotising fasciitis is a serious bacterial infection of the soft tissue and fascia. It can destroy tissue and cause death within 12 to 24 hours after infection.
People are reminded to adopt the following preventive measures:
* Avoid foot/leg contact with dirty water when visiting a wet market;
* Avoid exposure of open wounds or broken skin to seawater or salty water;
* Wounds should be thoroughly cleaned and properly covered; and
* Wear thick rubber gloves when handling raw shellfish.
Patients should seek medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms and signs of infection such as increasing redness, pain and swelling.
Ends/Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Issued at HKT 17:00
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