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Travel health advice on Middle East respiratory syndrome
Travel Health News Digest
 

Taiwan: Zika virus infection [Update]

This year’s third imported case of Zika virus infection was reported in Taiwan. The patient had travelled to Vietnam during the incubation period.

(Source: CDC, ROC (Taiwan) 29 July 2017)

 

India: Zika Virus Infection

On 15 May 2017, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare-Government of India (MoHFW) reported three laboratory-confirmed cases of Zika virus disease in Ahmedabad District, Gujarat, State, India.

(Source: World Health Organization 26 May 2017)

 

Mainland: Zika Virus Infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is closely monitoring the first imported case of Zika Virus Infection in Jiangsu, and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should not travel to Zika-affected areas.

The female patient, aged 28, returned from Ecuador and arrived at Jiangsu on April 28. She reported that she had developed symptoms including skin rash, fever, joint pain and conjunctivitis during the trip. The urine specimen of the patient tested positive for Zika virus. The patient has already been discharged from hospital.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 12 May 2017)

 

Singapore: Zika virus infection

Two cases of locally transmitted Zika virus infection in Singapore have been confirmed at Simon Place.

(Source: National Environment Agency of Singapore 29 March 2017)

 

Worldwide: Zika virus infection

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has posted Zika virus travel notice for Angola, Guinea-Bissau, Maldives and Solomon Islands.

For details, please visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices#_blank

(Source: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 10 March 2017)

 

Hong Kong: Zika Virus Infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is investigating an imported case of Zika Virus Infection. The female patient, aged 31 with good past health, presented with headache, sore throat, nausea and vomiting since April 21. She developed generalised skin rash since April 23. She attended Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital on April 24 and was admitted on the same day for management. She has been in a stable condition all along and has now been put under isolation. Her urine specimen tested positive for Zika virus.

Initial enquiries revealed that the patient had travelled to Ecuador and Peru on April 8 and returned to Hong Kong on April 21. She could not recall mosquito bites during travel or in Hong Kong. Ecuador and Peru are classified as areas with new introduction or re-introduction with ongoing transmission of Zika Virus Infection by the World Health Organization.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 26 April 2017)

 

Singapore: Zika virus infection [Update]

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today (November 22) removed the Amber Outbound Travel Alert (OTA) for Singapore.

A Government spokesman said, "The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a statement on November 18 which indicated that Zika virus and associated consequences remain a significant enduring public health challenge requiring intense action but no longer represent a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. In parallel with the WHO's statement, the Government has reassessed the situation in Singapore. It was noted that the number of Zika virus infection cases recorded has decreased from a peak of 215 cases per week in late August/early September to four to 12 cases per week in the last two months. It is expected that the situation of Singapore having the number of Zika virus infection cases reduced to zero is unlikely. Based on the latest public health risk assessment, the Government has decided to remove the Amber OTA for Singapore today.

"Nevertheless, Hong Kong will maintain its Alert Response Level under the Preparedness and Response Plan for Zika virus infection and continue the current prevention and control strategy. People should also remain vigilant against Zika virus infection. The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health again reminds travellers to adopt anti-mosquito measures and practice safer sex. Pregnant women and women planning for pregnancy should not travel to Zika-affected areas. For those who travel, they should take measures to prevent mosquito bites and continue applying insect repellent containing DEET for 21 days after return to Hong Kong. The above measures and recommendations are in line with the WHO's latest recommendations."

(Source: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region 22 November 2016)

 

Hong Kong: Zika Virus Infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is investigating an imported case of Zika Virus Infection. The male patient, aged 56 with underlying illnesses, was febrile on November 8 and this was followed by generalised maculopapular rash and diarrhoea. He attended Sha Tau Kok General Out-patient Clinic on November 12 and was admitted to North District Hospital on the same day. He has been in stable condition all along and has been admitted for isolation and management.

The patient had travelled alone to New York, Antigua and Barbuda, St Maarten and Anguilla from October 13 to November 8 before onset. He returned from New York via Chicago and arrived in Hong Kong on November 10. He recalled mosquito bites during his stay in Antigua and Barbuda. Antigua and Barbuda, St Maarten and Anguilla have been classified by the World Health Organization as countries/areas reporting outbreaks from 2015. Locally, he mainly stayed in his residence in Yan Shau Wai, San Tin, Yuen Long, on his own upon arrival until November 12, when he visited San Fung Avenue, Sheung Shui, after attending the GOPC before attending NDH.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 15 November 2016)

 

Thailand: Zika virus infection [Update]

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is closely monitoring the latest situation of Zika Virus Infection in Thailand, and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should not travel to affected areas.

According to the World Health Organization Regional Office for South-East Asia, Thailand has recently confirmed two cases of Zika-related microcephaly.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 1 October 2016)

 

USA: Zika virus infection

The CDC of the United States posted Zika virus-related special travel considerations for 11 Southeastern Asian countries. The countries included in these considerations are Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Thailand, Timor-Leste (East Timor), and Vietnam.

(Source: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 30 September 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection [Update]

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health was notified of an additional imported case of Zika Virus Infection in Guangdong by the National Health and Family Planning Commission and the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province, and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should not travel to affected areas.

The male patient aged 55 returning from Guatemala arrived at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport on September 16. He attended a hospital in Jiangmen for fever. The case was laboratory confirmed yesterday and he was under isolation and management in stable condition. To date, 24 imported cases of Zika Virus Infection have been notified in the Mainland.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 18 September 2016)

 

Thailand & Malaysia: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is closely monitoring the latest situation of Zika Virus Infection in Thailand and Malaysia, and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should not travel to affected areas.

According to the health authority of Thailand, 23 cases were recorded in the past week in six city/provinces, including Bangkok, Nong Khai, Chanthaburi, Phetchabun, Nakhon Ratchasima and Lopburi, bringing the total of cases to 279 in 2016 to date. In Malaysia, the health authority recorded six cases from September 1 to 13.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 16 September 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika Virus Infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health was notified of an additional imported case of Zika Virus Infection in Henan by the National Health and Family Planning Commission, and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should not travel to affected areas.

The male patient aged 28 developed fever and headache in Guatemala on September 4 and returned to Henan on September 8. He was detected as febrile with rash upon arrival and was hospitalised for management in stable condition.

To date, 23 imported cases of Zika Virus Infection have been notified in the Mainland China.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 12 September 2016)

 

Singapore: Zika virus infection [Update]

In view of the health risks arising from the outbreak of local Zika virus infection cases in Singapore, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region issued an Amber Outbound Travel Alert on Singapore.

Pregnant women and women preparing for pregnancy should not travel to areas with ongoing Zika virus transmission. Travellers should seek medical advice before the trip and avoid mosquito bites during the trip.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 2 September 2016)

 

USA: Zika virus infection [Update]

In the United States, according to the Florida Department of Health, apart from Miami-Dade County and Pinellas County confirmed with local cases, local cases were also reported in Palm Beach County. To date, 569 imported and 47 local cases have been recorded in Florida.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 1 September 2016)

 

Singapore: Zika virus infection [Update]

Regarding the latest situation in Singapore, a spokesman for the CHP said, "We are concerned about emerging local Zika cases in Singapore as well as the speed of local spread and possible importation to neighbouring areas. We are closely monitoring the additional cases and are communicating with the Ministry of Health of Singapore for more information.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 1 September 2016)

 

Singapore: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is closely monitoring 41 additional local cases of Zika Virus Infection in Singapore. According to the Ministry of Health of Singapore, all the cases are residents or workers in the Aljunied Crescent or Sims Drive area who had no recent travel history to affected areas and were likely to have been infected in Singapore.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 28 August 2016)

 

USA: Zika virus infection [Update]

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is closely monitoring the first local case of Zika Virus Infection reported in an additional area in Florida in the United States. According to the Florida Department of Health, apart from two areas in Miami-Dade County (Wynwood and Miami Beach) confirmed with active local Zika virus transmission, the first local case was reported in Pinellas County. To date, 508 imported and 42 local cases have been recorded in Florida.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 24 August 2016)

 

USA: Zika virus infection [Update]

There were 35 locally-acquired cases of Zika virus infection in Florida, USA. Transmission in Miami Beach was reported.

(Source: Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy 18 August 2016)

 

Taiwan: Zika virus infection

An imported case of Zika virus infection was reported in Taiwan. The patient had travelled to Florida, USA during the incubation period.

(Source: CDC, ROC (Taiwan) 17 August 2016)

 

USA: Zika virus infection [update]

4 more locally-acquired cases of Zika virus infection were reported in Florida, USA.

(Source: Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy 9 August 2016)

 

USA: Zika virus infection

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the United States of America issues travel guidance related to Miami neighborhood with active Zika spread. CDC recommends pregnant women not to travel to the identified area.

http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/p0801-zika-travel-guidance.html

(Source: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1 August 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection [Update]

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health received notification of an additional imported case of Zika Virus Infection from the National Health and Family Planning Commission and Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province, and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Based on recommendations by the World Health Organization, CHP has extended the recommended period of applying insect repellent upon arriving from Zika-affected areas from 14 days to at least 21 days.

The patient is a 40-year-old woman who lives in Suriname. She arrived at Baiyun International Airport in Guangzhou on July 9, and reported that she had developed skin rash and headache on July 8. The symptoms of her infection are mild and the patient was then hospitalised for isolation and management. She did not pass through Hong Kong.。

To date, 22 imported cases of Zika Virus Infection have been notified in the Mainland.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 11 July 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health received notification of an additional imported case of Zika Virus Infection from the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province, and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should not travel to affected areas.

A 32-year-old female patient who lives in Venezuela arrived in Guangdong on May 30. She subsequently developed fever and skin rash and was then hospitalised for isolation and management. To date, 21 imported cases of Zika Virus Infection have been notified in the Mainland.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 6 June 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

On 29 May 2016, the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health received notification of an additional imported case of Zika virus infection in Beijing from the National Health and Family Planning Commission. The male patient aged 31 developed fever in Venezuela and then returned to Beijing with skin rash.

To date, 20 imported cases of Zika virus infection have been notified in the Mainland.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 29 May 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

On 23 May 2016, the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health received notification of an additional imported case of Zika virus infection in Beijing from the National Health and Family Planning Commission. The male patient aged 35 developed fever and skin rash in Bolivia and then returned to Beijing.

To date, 19 imported cases of Zika Virus Infection have been notified in the Mainland.

(Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 23 May 2016)

 

New Caledonia: Zika virus infection

On 14 April 2016, New Caledonia reported to the World Health Organization the first two laboratory-confirmed locally acquired cases of Zika virus virus infection in 2016.

(Source: World Health Organization 20 May 2016)

 

Argentina: Zika virus infection

On 14 May 2016, the Argentina Ministry of Health reported the confirmation of two locally-acquired, vector-borne cases of Zika virus. Both cases were female with no recent travel history.

(Source: World Health Organization 19 May 2016)


Mainland: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health today (May 16) received notification of the first imported case of Zika virus Infection in Beijing from the National Health and Family Planning Commission, and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should not travel to affected areas.

The female patient aged 29 from Yantai, Shandong, travelled to Venezuela in April and developed fever and skin rash on May 11. She returned to Beijing on May 14, was hospitalised for management and was in stable condition.

To date, 18 imported cases of Zika Virus Infection have been notified in the Mainland.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 16 May 2016)


Mainland: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health today (May 15) received notification of an additional imported case of Zika virus Infection in the Mainland from the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province, and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to affected areas.

The patient is a 37-year-old man who lives in Venezuela. He arrived in Mainland China through the international airport in Xiamen, Fujian on April 28. The patient developed sore throat and low grade fever on May 8, and skin rash and high fever on May 12. He subsequently sought medical consultation locally. He is now hospitalised for isolation and management and is in stable condition.

To date, 17 imported cases of Zika Virus Infection have been notified in the Mainland.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 15 May 2016)


Americas, Africa, Asia and other areas: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) is today (May 13) closely monitoring the latest Zika virus update of the World Health Organization (WHO), and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to affected areas.

According to the WHO, Grenada recently reported mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission. To date, 58 countries/areas have documented ongoing mosquito-borne transmission since 2007 while nine have reported evidence of person-to-person transmission probably by sexual contact (see attachment). Based on research to date, there is scientific consensus that Zika virus is a cause of microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS).

"We noted the latest risk assessment of the WHO that Zika virus continues to spread geographically to areas where competent vectors are present. Although a decline in cases has been reported in some countries/areas, high vigilance should be remained. At this stage, based on evidence available, an overall decline in the outbreak is yet to be concluded," a spokesman for the CHP said.

"WHO also recognised that athletes and visitors are seeking more information on the risks of Zika and ways to prevent infection while attending the Olympic and Paralympic Games Rio 2016 (August 5 to September 18)," he added.

Apart from anti-mosquito measures and safer sex, the WHO encouraged athletes and visitors to avoid visiting impoverished and over-crowded areas in cities and towns with no piped water and poor sanitation (ideal breeding grounds of mosquitoes) where the risk of being bitten is higher, while pregnant women continue to be advised not to travel to areas with ongoing Zika virus transmission, which includes Rio de Janeiro.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 13 May 2016)

 

Americas, Africa, Asia and other areas: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is today (May 6) closely monitoring the latest Zika virus update of the World Health Organization (WHO), and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to affected areas.

According to the WHO, Peru and Saint Barthelemy are the latest country and territory to report mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission. To date, 57 countries/areas have documented ongoing mosquito-borne transmission since 2007 while nine have reported evidence of person-to-person transmission probably by sexual contact (see attachment). Based on research to date, there is scientific consensus that Zika virus is a cause of microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 6 May 2016)

 

Americas, Africa, Asia and other areas: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is today (April 29) closely monitoring the latest Zika virus update of the World Health Organization (WHO), and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to affected areas.

According to the WHO, Canada recently reported person-to-person Zika virus transmission. To date, 55 countries/areas have documented ongoing mosquito-borne transmission since 2007 while nine have reported evidence of person-to-person transmission probably by sexual contact (see attachment). Based on research to date, there is scientific consensus that Zika virus is a cause of microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 29 April 2016)

 

Americas, Africa, Asia and other areas: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is today (April 22) closely monitoring the latest Zika virus update of the World Health Organization (WHO), and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures and safe sex during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to affected areas.

According to the WHO, Peru and Portugal recently reported person-to-person Zika virus transmission. To date, 66 countries/areas have documented Zika virus transmission since 2007 and are detailed in the attachment. Based on a growing body of research, there is scientific consensus that Zika virus is a cause of microcephaly, Guillain-Barré syndrome and other central nervous system foetal malformations.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 22 April 2016)

 

Americas, Africa, Asia and other areas: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (April 15) closely monitoring the latest Zika virus update of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the latest scientific evidence on the disease. Travel health advice has been revised accordingly.

According to the WHO, Belize and Saint Lucia recently reported mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission. To date, 64 countries/areas have documented Zika virus transmission since 2007 and are detailed in the attachment. Based on a growing body of research, there is scientific consensus that Zika virus is a cause of microcephaly, Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and other central nervous system foetal malformations.

Apart from GBS, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (a disease of the central nervous system) was recently found to be one of the neurologic manifestations possibly resulted from Zika virus.

"We noted the latest report of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the United States which identified a case of sexual transmission of Zika virus between a man with recent travel to an area of active Zika virus transmission and his non-travelling male partner. We will continue to maintain close liaison with the WHO as well as overseas, neighbouring and Mainland health authorities to closely monitor the latest scientific evidence, and revise the local response if necessary," a spokesman for the CHP said.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 15 April 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health today (April 10) received notification of an additional imported case of Zika virus Infection in the Mainland from the National Health and Family Planning Commission and the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province, and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to the affected areas.

The patient is a 7-year-old girl who lives in Venezuela. She arrived at Baiyun International Airport in Guangzhou on April 4 and subsequently went to Enping, Jiangmen. She developed skin rash on the night she arrived at Enping. She is now under treatment at home in stable condition.

To date, 16 imported cases of Zika Virus Infection have been notified in the Mainland.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 10 April 2016)

 

Americas, Africa, Asia and other areas: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (April 8) closely monitoring the latest Zika virus update of the World Health Organization (WHO). In addition, health advice for women planning pregnancy has been revised.

According to the WHO, Vietnam recently reported mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission. To date, over 60 countries/areas have documented Zika virus transmission since 2007 and are detailed in the attachment. Based on a growing body of preliminary research, there is scientific consensus that Zika virus is a cause of microcephaly and Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

"Taking reference to the latest albeit limited information available so far and international recommendations, we advise women preparing for pregnancy to continue to adopt contraception for at least two months, extended from 28 days, after returning from areas with ongoing Zika virus transmission," a spokesman for the CHP said.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 8 April 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 1) received notification of two additional imported cases of Zika virus infection in the Mainland from the National Health and Family Planning Commission and the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province. The CHP again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to the affected areas.

The two patients are sisters aged 12 and 13 who returned to Enping, Jiangmen, Guangdong, from Venezuela. The younger sister developed skin rash on March 24 which later subsided. She was under isolation at home. Her elder sister presented with rash on her abdomen on March 29 and was hospitalised for isolation.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 1 April 2016)

 

Americas, Africa, Asia and other areas: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) is today (April 1) closely monitoring the latest Zika virus update of the World Health Organization (WHO), and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to affected areas.

To date, 61 countries/areas have documented Zika virus transmission since 2007 and are detailed below:

A. First Zika outbreak, with no evidence of past circulation, and with ongoing transmission by mosquitos (42)

Risk of Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), microcephaly and other neurological disorders associated with Zika virus is high.

Africa: Cape Verde

Americas (33): Aruba, Barbados, Bolivia, Bonaire, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Martinique, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Puerto Rico, Saint-Martin, St Maarten, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, the US Virgin Islands, Venezuela;

Southeast Asia: Maldives;

Western Pacific (seven): American Samoa, Fiji, Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu;


B. With evidence of past Zika transmission, with or without ongoing transmission (13)

Zika virus transmission has occurred at low levels in the past.

Africa: Gabon;

Southeast Asia (three): Bangladesh, Indonesia, Thailand;

Western Pacific (nine): Cambodia, Cook Islands*, French Polynesia*, Laos, Malaysia, Micronesia, New Caledonia*, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines;

*Outbreak over

C. With evidence of person-to-person Zika transmission, other than mosquito-borne transmission (six)

Transmission by modes other than vectors, e.g. by sexual contact, was recorded.

Americas (three): Argentina, Chile, the United States;

Europe (two): France, Italy; and

Western Pacific: New Zealand.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 1 April 2016)

 

Americas, Africa, Asia and other areas: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) is today (March 25) closely monitoring the latest update on Zika virus of the World Health Organization (WHO), and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to affected areas.

According to the WHO, 53 countries/areas have reported or indicated autochthonous Zika virus transmission since 2007, and five countries have reported or indicated locally acquired infections probably through sexual contact in the absence of any known mosquito vectors. They are detailed as follows:

A. Report/indication of autochthonous transmission and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and microcephaly (three)

Americas (two): Brazil, Panama;

Western Pacific (one): French Polynesia (outbreak terminated);


B. Report/indication of autochthonous transmission, GBS and no reports of microcephaly (nine)

Americas: Colombia, El Salvador, French Guiana, Haiti, Honduras, Martinique, Puerto Rico, Suriname, Venezuela;


C. Report/indication of autochthonous transmission and no reports of GBS or microcephaly (41)

Africa (two): Cape Verde, Gabon;

Americas (22): Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Saint-Martin, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Maarten, Trinidad and Tobago, the US Virgin Islands;

Southeast Asia (four): Bangladesh, Indonesia, Maldives, Thailand;

Western Pacific (13): American Samoa, Cambodia, Fiji, Laos, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu;


D. Locally acquired without vector-borne transmission (five)

Americas (two): Argentina, the United States;

Europe (two): France, Italy; and

Western Pacific (one): New Zealand.

(Source: World Health Organization 25 March 2016)

 

Americas, Africa, Asia and other areas: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health is today (March 18) closely monitoring the latest update on Zika virus of the World Health Organization (WHO), and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to affected areas.

According to the WHO, 52 countries/areas have reported or indicated autochthonous Zika virus transmission since 2007, and three countries have reported or indicated locally acquired infections probably through sexual contact in the absence of any known mosquito vectors. They are detailed as follows:


A. Report/indication of autochthonous transmission and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and microcephaly (two)

Americas (one): Brazil;

Western Pacific (one): French Polynesia (outbreak terminated);


B. Report/indication of autochthonous transmission, GBS and no reports of microcephaly (10)

Americas: Colombia, El Salvador, French Guiana, Haiti, Honduras, Martinique, Panama, Puerto Rico, Suriname, Venezuela;


C. Report/indication of autochthonous transmission and no reports of GBS or microcephaly (40)

Africa (two): Cape Verde, Gabon;

Americas (22): Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Saint-Martin, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Maarten, Trinidad and Tobago, the US Virgin Islands;

Southeast Asia (four): Bangladesh, Indonesia, Maldives, Thailand;

Western Pacific (12): American Samoa, Cambodia, Fiji, Laos, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu;


D. Locally acquired without vector-borne transmission (three)

Americas (one): the United States; and

Europe (two): France and Italy.


(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 18 March 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 11) received notification of an additional imported case of Zika virus infection on the Mainland from the National Health and Family Planning Commission and the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province. The CHP again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to the affected areas.

The case involves a 19-year-old man who lives in Venezuela. He arrived at Hong Kong International Airport on February 29 and shortly later on the same day travelled to Enping, Jiangmen, Guangdong, by bus via Shenzhen Bay Control Point. He remained afebrile during his travel. He developed a rash on March 9 and subsequently was laboratory confirmed to be an imported case of Zika Virus Infection by the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province. The patient is now hospitalised for isolation and management and is in stable condition.

To date, 13 imported cases of Zika Virus Infection have been notified on the Mainland.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 11 March 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health today (March 7) received notification of two additional imported cases of Zika virus infection in the Mainland from the National Health and Family Planning Commission and the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province, and again urged the public to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures during travel. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should consider deferring their trip to the affected areas.

The cases involve a 47-year-old man and his 6-year-old daughter. They arrived at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport from Venezuela on March 3 and were afebrile at the airport. They subsequently travelled to Enping, Jiangmen, Guangdong and developed fever and rash on March 5. They are now hospitalised for isolation and management and are in a stable condition.

To date, 12 imported cases of Zika Virus Infection have been notified in the Mainland.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 7 March 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

The National Health and Family Planning Commission and the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province announced an additional imported case of Zika virus infection in Mainland China. The male patient aged 40 from Jiangmen, Guangdong, works in Venezuela.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 1 March 2016)

 

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: Zika virus infection

On 25 February 2016, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines notified the World Health Organization of the country’s first case of Zika virus infection.

(Source: World Health Organization 1 March 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

The National Health and Family Planning Commission announced the sixth imported case of Zika virus infection in Mainland China. The patient was confirmed to have the infection after returning from Suriname.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 26 February 2016)

 

The National Health and Family Planning Commission and the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province announced two additional imported case of Zika virus infection in Mainland China. The patients were confirmed to have the infection after returning from Venezuela.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 28 February 2016)

 

Trinidad and Tobago: Zika virus infection

Trinidad and Tobago confirmed its first case of Zika virus infection in a 61 year old female.

(Source: World Health Organization 24 February 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health received notification today (February 23) of two additional imported cases of Zika Virus Infection in the Mainland from the National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), and again urged the public, particularly pregnant women, those planning pregnancy and immunocompromised patients, to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures during travel.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 23 February 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

The National Health and Family Planning Commission announced the third imported case of Zika virus infection in Mainland China. The patient was confirmed to have the infection after returning from Fiji and Samoa.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 19 February 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

The National Health and Family Planning Commission and the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province announced the second imported case of Zika virus infection in the Mainland China. The male patient was confirmed to have the infection after returning from Venezuela.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 15 February 2016)

 

United States of America: Zika virus infection

On 5 February 2016, the United States of America notified the World Health Organization of a probable case of sexual transmission of Zika virus.

(Source: World Health Organization, 12 February 2016)

 

Americas, Africa, Asia and other areas: Zika virus infection

According to the World Health Organization, to date, 34 countries and areas have reported autochthonous Zika virus transmission or locally acquired infection since 2015, six with indication of viral circulation and one with a locally acquired case without vector borne transmission. They are detailed as follows:

A. Reported autochthonous transmission (34)

Africa (one): the Republic of Cape Verde;

Americas (26): Barbados, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Curacao, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Martinique, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Puerto Rico, Saint-Martin, Suriname, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Venezuela;

Southeast Asia (two): Maldives, Thailand;

Western Pacific (five): American Samoa, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu;

B. Indication of viral circulation (six)

Africa (one): Gabon;

Southeast Asia (one): Indonesia;

Western Pacific (four): Cambodia, Fiji, the Philippines, Malaysia; and

C. Locally acquired without vector borne transmission (one)

Americas (one): the United States.

(Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 15 February 2016)

 

Mainland: Zika virus infection

The National Health and Family Planning Commission announced the first imported case of Zika virus infection identified in Mainland China.

(Source: National Health and Family Planning Commission, 9 February 2016)

 

Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific: Latest epidemiological update on Zika virus by the World Health Organization

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) is today (February 6) closely monitoring the latest epidemiological update on Zika virus by the World Health Organization (WHO), and again urged the public to pay special attention to safety during travel, taking due consideration of health risks of the places of visit.

Globally, Zika Virus Infection has been emerging and outbreaks have been recorded in Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific. Ongoing transmission of Zika has expanded rapidly in the Americas since 2015.

According to the latest Zika situation report by the WHO, a total of 33 countries have reported autochthonous circulation of Zika virus. These countries include Barbados, Bolivia, Brazil, the Republic of Cape Verde, Colombia, Curacao, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Fiji, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Maldives, Martinique, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Puerto Rico, Saint-Martin, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Suriname, Tonga, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Vanuatu and Venezuela.

In addition, there is also indirect evidence of local transmission in six additional countries. They are Gabon, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, the Philippines and Malaysia.

Locally, no human cases have been reported to the CHP to date. Yet, as long as there is international travel, there is always risk of introduction of Zika virus to Hong Kong. As asymptomatic infection is very common and the potential vector, Aedes albopictus, is present locally, there is also risk of local spread in case Zika is introduced to Hong Kong.

(Source: The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health 6 February 2016)

 

United States of America: Zika virus infection

On 25 January 2016, the National IHR Focal Point for the United States of America notified WHO of the first laboratory-confirmed cases of Zika virus infection in St. Croix, one of the three main islands in the United States Virgin Islands.

(Source: World Health Organization 29 January 2016)

 

Dominican Republic: Zika virus infection

On 23 January 2016, the National IHR Focal Point for the Dominican Republic notified WHO of 10 laboratory-confirmed case of Zika virus infection.

(Source: World Health Organization 27 January 2016)

 

Americas : Zika virus infection

Zika is a mosquito-borne virus that is new to the Americas. Since Brazil reported the first cases of local transmission of the virus in May 2015, it has spread to 21 countries and territories of the Americas (as of 23 January 2016). Pan American Health Organization anticipates that Zika virus will continue to spread and will likely reach all countries and territories of the region where Aedes mosquitoes are found.

(Source: Pan American Health Organization 24 January 2016)

 

Haiti: Zika virus infection

On 18 January 2016, the National IHR Focal Point for Haiti notified WHO of 5 laboratory-confirmed cases of Zika virus infection.

(Source: World Health Organization 21 January 2016)

 

Bolivia: Zika virus infection

On 16 January 2016, the Ministry of Health of Bolivia notified WHO of the first laboratory-confirmed case of locally-acquired Zika virus infection.

(Source: World Health Organization 20 January 2016)

 

Africa, Americas, Asia, Caribbean, Oceania: Countries that have past or current evidence of Zika virus transmission

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of United States of America updated the list of countries that have past or current evidence of Zika virus transmission. Pregnant women should consider deferring their trip to these areas. Women preparing for pregnancy and those who must travel to any of these areas should seek medical advice from their doctor before the trip and strictly follow steps to avoid mosquito bites during the trip. Travellers who return from areas with ongoing Zika virus transmission and feel unwell should seek medical advice as soon as possible and provide travel details to their doctor.

http://www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/24/43088.html

(Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of United States of America 19 January 2016)

 

Taiwan: Zika virus infection

The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control announced the first imported case of Zika virus infection identified in Taiwan.

(Source: Centers for Disease Control, R.O.C. (Taiwan) 19 January 2016)

 

Caribbean, Central and South America: DH alerts travellers to risk of Zika virus infection

The Department of Health (DH) drew the public's attention to the latest situation of the mosquito-borne Zika virus infection in some countries in the Caribbean, Central and South America, including Brazil, Columbia, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guyana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Puerto Rico, Paraguay, Saint Martin, Suriname and Venezuela, and appealed to travellers for vigilance and due consideration of health risks before the trip. Microcephaly and other poor pregnancy outcomes in babies were noted overseas among mothers who were infected with Zika while pregnant. In view of the latest situation, as a precautionary measure, pregnant women should consider deferring their trip to areas with past or current evidence of ongoing Zika virus transmission. Women preparing for pregnancy and those who must travel to any of these areas should seek medical advice from their doctor before the trip and strictly follow steps to avoid mosquito bites during the trip. Travellers who return from areas with ongoing Zika transmission and feel unwell should seek medical advice as soon as possible and provide travel details to their doctor.

 (Source: Centre for Health Protection of Department of Health 18 January 2016)

 

United States of America: Zika virus infection

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of United States of America issues a travel alert for people travelling to regions and certain countries where Zika virus transmission is ongoing: Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Suriname, Venezuela, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Pregnant women and women trying to become pregnant should avoid going to these countries. If they must travel to these countries, they should consult their doctor before departure and adopt anti-mosquito measures strictly after arrival. People infected with Zika virus will develop symptoms, which include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat Zika.

http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/s0315-zika-virus-travel.html

(Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of United States of America 15 January 2016)

 

United States of America: Zika virus infection

On 31 December 2015, the United States reported a laboratory-confirmed case of Zika virus disease in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

(Source: World Health Organization 5 January 2016)