FDH who went to PH tests positive for measles

MMR vaccine

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) has confirmed that a foreign domestic helper tested positive for measles after she traveled to the Philippines.

The CHP said the 38-year-old woman developed fever on Nov. 19 and rash the following day. She was admitted at the Queen Mary Hospital at Pok Fu Lam on Nov.22.

She went to the Philippines during the incubation period, which covers seven-21 days. The Philippine health department has declared a measles outbreak in five regions in the country in February 2019.

During the said period, symptoms such as fever, cough, rash, runny nose and red eyes are expected to appear in people infected with the measles virus.

The CHP advised those who may have visited the following places to observe if they have also developed the same symptoms as measles is a highly-contagious illness:

Clinic of Dr. Lam Tak Wa, located at Shop 8-9, G/F, Yee Hing Building, 150 Ap Lei Chau Main Street

Clinic of Dr. Mac Wing Yan Miranda, G/F, 4 Sai On Street, Aberdeen

The woman infected with measles went to the said facilities in early November. The CHP said those who visited the said clinics must be vigilant and should take note if they have exhibited the said symptoms.

“If symptoms arise, they should wear surgical masks, stop going to work or school and avoid going to crowded places. They should also avoid contact with non-immune persons, especially persons with weakened immunity, pregnant women and children aged below one,” the CHP said.

The CHP added that those who have shown such symptoms should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

The World Health Organization said measles can be transmitted via droplets from the nose, mouth or throat of infected persons. Infection can only be prevented through vaccination.

The Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong has announced that there will be free measles vaccination for foreign domestic helpers until February 2020. They only need to bring their employment contract or working visa and Hong Kong identity card or passport to avail of the said free vaccination.

People who also plan to travel to countries with high incidence or outbreak of measles should review their vaccination history and past medical history. If the vaccination history is not known, they should go to their doctor and ask for advise regarding vaccination two weeks prior departure.

People can also call the 24-hour health education hotline of CHP at 28330111 to get more information about measles.