Hong Kong Records New Mpox Cases, Health Authorities Urge High-Risk Groups to Stay Vigilant
HK01 · 4 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Centre for Health Protection confirmed on September 19 a new mpox case involving a 25-year-old man, marking the 17th case recorded since August as part of a significant uptick in infections . The patient developed intermittent fever from September 2, followed by swollen lymph nodes and rashes on his genitals, groin, face and eyelids . He sought medical attention at Eastern District Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Hospital before being admitted for isolation treatment on September 18, with his condition currently stable . Authorities have not identified any epidemiological link between this case and previous infections .
Key Points
- The 25-year-old patient reported multiple high-risk exposures in Hong Kong during the incubation period, with rashes appearing on genitals, groin, face and eyelids
- Hong Kong has recorded 26 mpox cases in 2024 as of September 19, comprising 21 local and 5 imported cases, with 17 occurring since August
- All recent patients reported men who have sex with men (MSM) behaviour, with 10 of 17 cases using dating apps to find sexual partners
- Another case involving a 29-year-old man was reported on September 21, bringing the total to 27 cases with 18 recorded since August
- Since 2022, Hong Kong has logged 111 mpox cases (88 local, 23 imported), all among male patients
Why It Matters
The 18 new mpox cases recorded since August represent a significant surge that has prompted the Centre for Health Protection to issue a strong appeal to high-risk groups . The concentration among men who have sex with men and the use of dating apps highlight how the virus continues to spread through high-risk sexual networks, prompting public health officials to call for vigilance and protective measures among vulnerable populations .
The 18 new mpox cases recorded since August represent a significant surge that has prompted the Centre for Health Protection to issue a strong appeal to high-risk groups . The concentration among men who have sex with men and the use of dating apps highlight how the virus continues to spread through high-risk sexual networks, prompting public health officials to call for vigilance and protective measures among vulnerable populations .