Mong Kok sauna patrons urged to get Mpox tests

The Centre for Health Protection is urging Mong Kok sauna patrons to get screened for Mpox, following the confirmation of a 39-year-old man with the viral illness. The man allegedly had high-risk sexual contact with other male patrons at the Hu-Tong club. So far this year, 31 Mpox cases have been confirmed in Hong Kong. Albert Au, head of the centre's communicable diseases branch, stated on an RTHK radio programme that the latest infection appears to be an isolated case, not an outbreak.

The patient frequented the Hu-Tong sauna multiple times during the incubation period and had high-risk sexual contact there, said Au. Authorities have recommended that Hu-Tong be temporarily closed as a precautionary measure. The incubation period for the virus typically lasts six to 13 days, but can be as short as a day or as long as 21 days.

Early symptoms are similar to other viral infections, such as fever, chills, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. However, a rash is the most crucial symptom, eventually forming into scabs. Au urged those who visited the sauna on or before September 14 to contact the Mpox hotline at 2125-2373 for a health assessment and potential testing if they exhibit symptoms.

Since August, 22 confirmed Mpox cases have been recorded in Hong Kong, with the majority of patients using dating apps to seek sexual partners. Authorities have found it challenging to trace all contacts due to some infected patients being unable to reconnect with their sexual partners.