Case count

The Hong Kong Centre for Health Protection (CHP) reports investigating 133 additional confirmed cases of  COVID-19 cases today.  This brings the number of cases to 2506.

Hong Kong/CIA

Among the newly reported cases announced, seven had travel history during the incubation period.

As for the local cases, as some cases involved residents and staff of Cornwall Elderly’s Home (Golden Branch) in Tuen Mun and that the residential care home for the elderly (RCHE) is considered not suitable for quarantine of residents, the residents of the RCHE who are identified as close contacts of confirmed cases will be sent to the Hong Kong PHAB Association Jockey Club PHAB Camp in Pok Fu Lam and the temporary quarantine centre for residents of RCHE at AsiaWorld-Expo for quarantine.

Got Smallpox?

A spokesman for the CHP said, “Given that the situation of COVID-19 infection remains severe and that there is a continuous increase in the number of cases reported around the world, members of the public are strongly urged to avoid all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong.

“The CHP also strongly urges the public to maintain at all times strict personal and environmental hygiene, which is key to personal protection against infection and prevention of the spread of the disease in the community. On a personal level, members of the public should wear a surgical mask when having respiratory symptoms, taking public transport or staying in crowded places. They should also perform hand hygiene frequently, especially before touching the mouth, nose or eyes.”

SARS-CoV-2 positive cat

Dr Thomas Sit, Chief Veterinary Officer / Assistant Director (Inspection & Quarantine), Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department in Hong Kong reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) on a SARS-CoV-2 positive cat from Sheung Wan.

Officials say the transmission was likely human to animal.

The cat was placed under quarantine on 21 July 2020 after confirmation of a human case from the same household. Following veterinary examination nasal, oral and rectal swab samples were taken after the cat’s admission to the quarantine facility. The oral sample was tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. The cat has not exhibited any specific clinical signs. Investigations are continuing to determine the duration of virus detection. Risk management measures are in place for this case, including cleansing and disinfection of the premises, and proper personal hygiene and protection.