Investigation and control of a measles outbreak at the Hong Kong International Airport, 2019
10.5365/wpsar.2019.10.2.007
- Author:
Wong Chi Hong
1
;
Chuang Shuk Kwan
1
;
Lam Wing Hang
1
;
Lam Ho Yeung
1
;
Ho Lei Ming Raymond
1
;
Leung Yiu Hong
2
;
Lam Chau Keun Yonnie
1
;
Lam Tsz Sum
1
Author Information
1. Centre for Health Protection, Department of Health, Hong Kong SAR (China)
2. Centre for Health Protection, Department of Health, Hong Kong SAR (China).
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Measles;
outbreak;
Hong Kong;
Airport;
- From:
Western Pacific Surveillance and Response
2020;11(2):1-4
- CountryWHO-WPRO
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction:Hong Kong SAR (China) achieved measles elimination status in 2016, and the incidence of measles
infection had been low over the past few years. However, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) at the Department of Health was notified on 22 March 2019 of an outbreak of three cases of measles infection among workers at the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).
Methods:We reviewed notifications of measles received by CHP from 1 January to 17 May 2019. We defined a
confirmed case of measles as having laboratory evidence of measles infection. All confirmed cases among airport workers or those with epidemiological information suggesting they had been infected by contact with airport workers were included in the review. We described the epidemiological features and reviewed the control measures against the outbreak.
Results:We identified 33 cases, 29 of which were among airport workers. They comprised 22 men and 11 women,
aged 20–49 years (median 25 years). The majority of people with confirmed measles presented with fever and rash. All required hospitalization. None developed complications. Control measures, including enhanced environmental hygiene and improved ventilation at HKIA and vaccinations for the airport community, were implemented.
Discussion:Early recognition of the outbreak and prompt control measures, especially targeted vaccination of the
exposed population, effectively controlled the outbreak in just two weeks.
- Full text:wpsar.2020.11.2 01-04 Wong.pdf
