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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (March 17) confirmed a case of Chrysomya bezziana infestation and urged members of the public to guard against the disease.
Case details are as follow:
Age: 79
Sex: Male
Place of residence: Yuen Long
Date of onset: March 12
Symptoms: Bleeding oral ulcers. Maggots were found in the patient's oral cavity.
Present condition: Attended Accident and Emergency Department of North District Hospital on March 12. No hospitalisation required. Now in stable condition.
Travel history: No recent travel history.
Cumulative total received by CHP in 2006: 1
* imported case: 0
* local case: 1
The number of cases received by the Department of Health in recent years: 9 in 2003, 8 in 2004 and 4 in 2005.
Chrysomya bezziana is an obligate parasite of mammals. The site of infestation with the larvae is usually at superficial wounds and body orifices of debilitated persons.
The larvae feed on the host's dead or living tissue. Feeding activity of the larvae may cause serious tissue damage, resulting in loss of condition, injury to the skin, secondary invasion and death.
Members of the public, especially staff of elderly homes, are advised to note the following measures:
* All wounds should be treated immediately. Wound fluids and blood are known to be attractive to Chrysomya bezziana. To avoid myiasis infestation, wounds should be cleaned and dressed properly;
* Fly infestation could be avoided by measures such as installation of fly screens at human dwelling places, dressing of wounds and good ventilation;
* Observe good personal and environmental hygiene;
* Staff of elderly homes should ensure good environmental hygiene, be alert to residents developing symptoms of the disease and arrange for those who are feeling unwell to seek medical advice promptly.
Ends/Friday, March 17, 2006
Issued at HKT 17:00
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