The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
 
     As at yesterday (December 31), a total of 5 191 patients who tested positive for COVID-19 were hospitalised for treatment. Among the hospitalised confirmed patients, 630 were new patients, 3 115 required isolation, 738 required oxygen therapy and 89 required ventilator support. There were 34 newly reported critical patients and 46 newly reported serious patients. There were a total of 207 patients in critical condition and 221 in serious condition, of which 55 critical patients were receiving intensive care. Moreover, there were 536 patients who had recovered, including 459 patients who had been discharged. In addition, 62 patients who passed away in public hospitals were reported.

     The overall occupancy of medical beds in acute hospitals is around 114 per cent.

     The Hospital Authority will maintain close contact with the Centre for Health Protection to monitor the latest developments and to inform the public and healthcare workers on the latest information in a timely manner.

Ends/Sunday, January 1, 2023
Issued at HKT 17:21

NNNN