In recent weeks we have seen an increase in patients who present with ‘sore throat’ in the clinic. Some of which have subsequently been diagnosed with Scarlet Fever(SF). The Department of Health has also issued a warning to doctors to be aware of increase in number of cases of confirmed Scarlet Fever in Hong Kong.
SF is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS). The streptococcal bacteria is transmitted through the respiratory route or direct contact with infected respiratory secretions. Initially patients present with a combination of symptoms which include sore throat, headache and temperature. Subsequently a rash usually starts on the chest or tummy, before spreading to other areas. The rash follows 12-48 hours after the fever. It starts as some pink red blotches and feels like sandpaper. The tongue initially has a white coating but then peels away leaving the tongue look red and swollen (known as strawberry tongue) The diagnosis of Scarlet Fever is usually made clinically, however throat swabs can be taken to test for Group A strep. At The London, a rapid test for Strep A can be done onsite, with results available after 10 Minutes and therefore antibiotics started immediately. Alternatively, throat swabs can also be taken to be sent off to the laboratory to test if sore throat is due to bacterial infection, in which case the most suitable antibiotic is then advised. Results for this can take up to 3-4 days. Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms for the patient and preventing complications such as tonsillar abscess formation, spread of infection to chest and brain, Rheumatic fever, and acute kidney injury. The London will be closed during the Christmas public holidays on Monday 25th December and Tuesday 26th December. Normal clinic hours will resume on Wednesday 27th December from 8.30am.
During the New Year holidays, the clinic will be closed on Monday 1st January 2018. A new study gives evidence that feeling positive when you have your yearly flu jab might boost it's effectiveness. Here is a recent SCMP article featuring Dr Tony explaining the possible link. Whether you're happy or not happy to have one - we'd suggest that you get one this year! We still have some stock in clinic.
Dr Lily contributed to this Jetstar article on beating travel fatigue. Good advice for frequent travellers with or without kids! Article PDF here
The yearly flu vaccine is now in stock for the upcoming season. Please contact the clinic and get vaccinated as earliest as possible. The vaccine is suitable for adults and children above the age of 6 months. Australia is having it's worst flu season for 15 years and it is predicted other countries like UK will be badly affected this Winter. Prevention is vital for vulnerable groups like pregnant women, young children, elderly and those with chronic conditions like diabetes and asthma.
Learn more about the Body Mass Index and weight measurement with this article featuring Dr Gordon in the South China Morning Post. http://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/health-beauty/article/2093516/bmi-reliable-indicator-health-and-fitness-two-hong-kong
Patients of The London can now conveniently order repeat drug prescriptions via our online form. All requests will be vetted by the doctors before issuing and only repeats of previously prescribed medications will be allowed.
The London will be closed from:
Christmas Eve (Saturday 24th December) at 1pm to Wednesday December 28th 8.30am New Years Day holiday 2nd January 2017 : Closed Wishing all patients a happy festival season! Hope you find the info on here useful, please give us any feedback. We have added Online Repeat Prescription requests due to popular demand. The iOS and Android apps will be updated with this function in the near future.
|
Latest NewsCOVID-19 HK vaccination information Archives
November 2022
Categories |