HONG KONG, Oct. 24 (Xinhuanet) -- A streptococcus suis infection was confirmed here Monday, bringing the number of this year's infection cases to 12.

    The Center for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said it had received a laboratory report confirming streptococcus suis infection from Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital.

    The case concerned a 43-year-old man living in Quarry Bay, who was admitted to hospital on Oct. 13 because of fever and chills, but died the same day. It is said he had no recent travel history outside Hong Kong.

    His family members are being put under medical surveillance by the CHP.

    Streptococcus suis infection may present as meningitis, septicemia, arthritis and bronchopneumonia, which could be treated with appropriate antibiotics.

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government urged people to observe personal and environmental hygiene practices and avoid contact with pigs that are sick or dead from diseases. Enditem