Alert over high level of scarlet fever cases

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 20) urged members of the public to maintain vigilance against scarlet fever as the number of reported cases remains at a high level.

So far, there have been six institutional outbreaks in 2011, involving three kindergartens/child care centres, two primary schools and one residential special child care centre. A total of 22 persons were affected.

Scarlet fever is caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria and can be cured with appropriate antibiotics. This disease usually affects children under 10 years of age and presents as fever, sore throat and rash. The rash appears over the trunk and neck and spreads to the limbs, especially the armpits, elbows and groin. The illness is usually clinically mild but can be complicated by shock and heart and kidney diseases. Scarlet fever is transmitted through either the respiratory route or direct contact with infected respiratory secretions. People who are suspected to have scarlet fever should consult their doctors.

To prevent infection, members of the public are advised to:

• maintain good personal and environmental hygiene;
• keep hands clean and wash hands properly;
• wash hands when they are dirtied by respiratory secretions, e.g. after sneezing;
• cover the nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly; and
• maintain good ventilation.

Monday, June 20, 2011 Issued at HKT 18:35

Source:

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health

www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/23359.html