Hong Kong Reports Two New Mpox Cases, Both Men Hospitalized in Stable Condition

Summary

Key Points

• The first case involves a 38-year-old man whose genital ulcer began on August 19, prompting him to seek treatment at the Yau Ma Tei Male Social Hygiene Clinic on August 31 13. He reported having sexual contact with his male partner during the incubation period 24.
• The second patient is a 34-year-old man who developed fever on August 27 and a sore throat on August 29, when he attended the emergency department of Caritas Medical Centre and was admitted 14. A rash appeared on September 1 across his face, neck, torso, limbs, genitals, and buttocks 13. He reported high-risk contact with three unfamiliar men during the incubation period 123.
• Both patients are in isolation at hospital and their conditions are stable 1234. There is currently no evidence linking the two cases to each other or to earlier monkeypox cases in Hong Kong 1234.
• Since 2022, Hong Kong has recorded 99 monkeypox cases in total, comprising 79 local and 20 imported cases, all among male patients 123. Epidemiological investigations indicate most cases involved high-risk sexual behaviour, including sexual contact with strangers or intercourse without condoms 123.
• The Centre for Health Protection strongly urges individuals in high-risk target groups to get vaccinated against monkeypox 12. The public is advised to avoid close physical contact with suspected cases and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms such as rash, fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, muscle pain, or severe headache develop 12.

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