A case of human myiasis under investigation
10 June 2006
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (June 10) is investigating a case of human myiasis and urges members of the public to guard against the disease.
Case details are as follow:
Age: 66
Sex: Male
District of residence: North District
Date of onset: June 6
Symptoms: m aggots found in scalp wounds.
Present condition: Admitted to North District Hospital on June 8 and is in stable condition.
Travel history: No recent travel history.
Cumulative total received by CHP in 2006: 4
*imported case: 0
*local case: 4
The number of cases received by DH in recent years: 9 in 2003, 8 in 2004 and 6 in 2005.
Maggots of Chrysomya are obligate parasites of mammals. The site of infestation with these larvae is usually at superficial wounds and body orifices of debilitated persons.
The larvae feed on the host's dead or living tissue. Feeding activity of the larvae may cause serious tissue damage, resulting in loss of condition, injury to the skin, secondary invasion and death.
Members of the public, especially staff of elderly homes, are advised to note the following measures:
- All wounds should be treated immediately. Wound fluids and blood are known to be attractive to some species of Chrysomya. To avoid myiasis infestation, wounds should be cleaned and dressed properly;
- Fly infestation could be avoided by proofing measures, including installation of fly screening materials to human dwelling places, dressing of wounds and maintaining good ventilation;
- Observe good personal and environmental hygiene;
- Staff of elderly homes should ensure good environmental hygiene, be alert to inmates developing symptoms of the disease and arrange inmates feeling unwell to seek medical consultation promptly.
Ends/Saturday, June 10, 2006
