CHP Investigates Third Human Case of Rat Hepatitis E This Year
Thestandard · 1 SOURCESabout 5 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) is investigating a third human case of rat hepatitis E in Hong Kong this year, involving a 91-year-old man with pre-existing medical conditions. The patient was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in mid-September after presenting with fever and limb weakness. Blood tests confirmed abnormal liver function and the presence of the rat-borne virus .
Key Points
- The 91-year-old patient was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in mid-September with fever and limb weakness; blood tests confirmed rat hepatitis E and abnormal liver function
- He resides in a Kowloon City District care home, reported no direct rodent contact, and has no recent travel history
- The man regularly dined with his family at a restaurant in Homantin Plaza, where joint inspections found substandard sanitation and rodent activity
- The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) initiated prosecution against the licensee and issued a formal vermin eradication notice
- His family members, fellow residents, and caregivers are under medical surveillance with no symptoms reported so far
Why It Matters
The case highlights the ongoing risk of rat hepatitis E transmission in urban Hong Kong through indirect contact via contaminated food or surfaces, particularly for vulnerable populations. Authorities are urging the public to maintain rigorous food safety and hygiene practices as environmental inspections continue across the affected area .
The case highlights the ongoing risk of rat hepatitis E transmission in urban Hong Kong through indirect contact via contaminated food or surfaces, particularly for vulnerable populations. Authorities are urging the public to maintain rigorous food safety and hygiene practices as environmental inspections continue across the affected area .