Hong Kong

COVID-19

COVID-19 is present in Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong Government has reported multiple cases of COVID-19 and upgraded its response level to emergency, its highest response level. If you have symptoms, you may be taken to hospital for further testing. If authorities suspect you’re infected, you may need to stay in hospital or be quarantined. Monitor your health closely and follow the advice of local authorities.

While Hong Kong has reported a number of COVID-19 cases, including human-to-human transmission, it has robust screening measures and a very good health care system. 

More information: 

Humidity

Hong Kong experiences very high humidity during summer, from May to October.

Reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities on very humid days.

Air pollution

High levels of air pollution may trigger bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions.

If you have an existing heart or breathing difficulties, reduce physical and outdoor activities on days with high pollution.

You can monitor real-time air quality index reports for Hong Kong.

Insect-borne diseases

Outbreaks of mosquito-borne illnesses, including dengue, sometimes occur.

The Hong Kong SAR Government is currently at ‘Alert’ response level for the Zika virus. This is the lowest level in the 3-tier alert system which indicates that the immediate health impact on the local population is low.

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

If you’re pregnant, consult your doctor about possible Zika virus risks before travelling.

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is common. Serious outbreaks sometimes occur. Outbreaks usually start in March or April and peak in May. Sometimes they last until October.

HFMD mostly affects children aged younger than 10 years, but adult cases, particularly in young adults, occur.

HFMD is spread by direct contact with discharges of infected people.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases occur sometimes. These include:

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids in rural areas
• avoid ice cubes

Seek medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Human cases of avian influenza A (H7N9) have been reported in mainland China.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government is currently at ‘Alert’ response level for influenza, including avian influenza A (H7N9). This is the lowest level in the 3-tier alert system.

To reduce your risk:

• wash your hands often
• use good food safety practices
• avoid contact with animals

More information:

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus

The Hong Kong SAR Government is currently at ‘Alert’ response level for Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). This is the lowest level in the 3-tier alert system.

Hong Kong’s Department of Health checks for MERS-CoV at border control points.

Travellers who arrive in, or transit through, Hong Kong and have flu-like symptoms may be sent to a public hospital. The hospital will isolate the person until they test negative for MERS-CoV.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government