No coronavirus cases reported

September 25, 2012

The Centre for Health Protection has so far found no novel coronavirus infections among people travelling into Hong Kong from Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and no travel restrictions have been recommended as yet.
 
The centre is liaising with the World Health Organisation about the two recent human cases of novel coronavirus infection from the two countries. It is closely monitoring the global situation for more possible cases.
 
Secretary for Food & Health Dr Ko Wing-man told the media today that initial information has confirmed that the cases involve novel coronavirus infection but not Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, or SARS.
 
He said the Government needs to acquire more information about the patients’ history and symptoms to take follow-up action.
 
The centre has formed an enhanced surveillance mechanism with public and private hospitals, control points, and the airport, to spot any suspected cases. None have been reported so far.
 
He said the Alert Response Level has been activated, but there is no need to raise it, adding the Government is still monitoring the situation.
 
Dr Ko said the two countries are far from Hong Kong, and see few tourists from here.