Hong Kong reports new melioidosis case, woman stable
Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection reported a new melioidosis case on 23 October 2026, involving a 50-year-old woman with underlying conditions. She is in stable condition. The centre advises the public to avoid contact with soil and floodwater, especially after typhoons or heavy rain.
Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection (CHP) on 23 October 2026 announced a new case of melioidosis, involving a 50-year-old woman with long-term health conditions. The woman, a resident of Wan Chai district, developed a persistent fever from 30 September and sought treatment at Rutton Hospital's accident and emergency department on 3 October, where she was admitted for hospital care. Tests on a sample taken from a liver abscess confirmed the presence of Burkholderia pseudomallei bacteria. The patient is currently in stable condition.
The CHP is investigating the source of the infection. Initial epidemiological findings indicate the case is sporadic, with no link to previously recorded cases in Hong Kong.
Melioidosis is caused by bacteria that do not normally spread from person to person or from animals to humans, but can survive in the local environment. The disease is endemic in Hong Kong, with cases recorded annually. As of 22 October, Hong Kong has recorded 10 melioidosis cases this year, compared with 21 cases in 2025.
According to medical literature, melioidosis cases tend to increase after typhoons or heavy rain, as soil and mud containing the bacteria can be exposed and dispersed by strong winds or rain. The CHP advises the public, where possible, to stay indoors during typhoons and heavy rain, avoid flooded areas, and refrain from wading through mud or floodwater. High-risk individuals should also avoid roads near drainage channels to reduce exposure to aerosols from contaminated water.
The CHP recommends preventive measures including avoiding contact with contaminated soil, wearing protective clothing such as gloves and rubber boots during activities involving soil or mud, and showering after contact with contaminated water or soil. People should clean wounds promptly and cover them with waterproof dressings, wash hands with soap and water after gardening, and avoid drinking unboiled water. Travellers should avoid potentially contaminated water sources such as rivers, ponds or lakes.
The centre urged the public, especially those with diabetes or weakened immune systems, to seek medical attention promptly if symptoms develop.