In view of the imminent festive holiday, it is estimated that travellers to popular destinations such as Japan to celebrate will increase. Given that the number of Fifth Disease has reached a record high, and Seasonal Influenza is also raging there in recent months, the general public needs to be aware of that.

Fifth Disease is a mild rash illness that occurs more commonly in children. A typical rash occurs on the face, giving the “slapped-cheek” appearance. It may appear less commonly on other parts of the body such as limbs and trunk. The rash may be itchy and usually disappears in 7 - 10 days. Low-grade fever and tiredness often precedes the appearance of the rash. Adults who are infected with parvovirus B19 often develop flu-like symptoms without rash and may develop joint pain and swelling.

Prevention: Maintain good personal hygiene and environmental hygiene (please click here for more details announced by the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health)

Seasonal influenza is an acute illness of the respiratory tract caused by influenza viruses. Antigenic drifts (minor changes) of seasonal influenza viruses will lead to emergence of new strains. New strains appear from time to time and at irregular intervals. It is usually associated with a large number of cases, higher severity of illness, a higher death toll and consequently greater social and economic disruption. For healthy individuals, seasonal influenza is usually self-limiting with recovery in a few days to less than two weeks. Symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle and joint pain, fatigue and headache; some may also have vomiting and diarrhoea.

Prevention: Seasonal influenza vaccination, maintain good personal hygiene, good environmental hygiene and good indoor ventilation. (please click here for more details announced by the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health)