Education Corner

The third wave of the novel coronavirus pandemic has emerged, with confirmed cases in consecutive days reaching double digits, appearing across different areas and groups, which calls for high attention. Experts have analyzed that a mutated strain with faster reproduction and stronger transmissibility may have appeared in Hong Kong, increasing community infection risks, so vigilance is essential. Coronavirus symptoms may be very mild or even absent. Anyone feeling unwell, even with very mild symptoms, should seek medical advice promptly for early diagnosis and follow-up. Human Health Medical continues to provide COVID-19 testing at its general clinics in two forms: Nucleic acid testing for individuals with mild symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, fever, fatigue, dry cough, and difficulty breathing. Testing available for anyone needing tests for travel or health certification. Cost: HKD 350 for mild symptomatic testing; HKD 950 for general or certification testing. This includes doctor consultation and testing fees but excludes medication or other diagnostics or treatments. Sample submission before noon (collection times may vary).Report turnaround time: at least 5 working days (350 HKD) or about 1-2 working days (950 HKD). Process: Clients pay at general clinics, get doctor assessment, and receive sample containers; remote video consultation also available. Clients self-submit samples at designated collection points. FAQs Q1: Who can use the $350 COVID-19 testing service? What qualifies as an eligible person?A: Anyone with any mild symptoms or discomfort such as nasal congestion, headache, fever, fatigue, dry cough, or difficulty breathing, who wants to rule out infection, can use this service. If not, consider other services suitable for any person. *Note: This service is not applicable for Health Code or other travel-related applications.   Q2: Can any clinic provide the test without appointment?A: No appointment is needed. You can proceed to the clinic directly. For clinic locations and hours, please check our network website:https://www.humanhealth.com.hk/zh-hant/networks/search/   Q3: Where are the designated sample collection points?A: Different areas or services have different collection points. Staff will assist with information when you go.   Q4: Can the test be done on the same day at the clinic, or do I collect the sample kit and submit it the next day? How long for results?A: After doctor assessment, you get a sample container at the clinic. You collect saliva the next morning and submit it to a designated collection point. For same-day sample collection and testing, avoid eating or rinsing mouth 60 minutes before sampling. Bring the sample back to the collection point the same day.$350 test results require at least 5 working days. For faster reports, consider other services.   Q5: What does the $350 COVID-19 test include?A: It includes doctor consultation and assessment. Additional fees for medication or other diagnostics and treatment may apply. Check with the clinic.*Note: This service does not apply for Health Code or other travel-related applications.   Q6: What if the test is positive?A: If the patient meets the Department of Health’s criteria for “Severe New Infectious Respiratory Disease,” the Health Protection Center will be notified immediately, and procedures will be followed. Patients should be hospitalized promptly for treatment and early recovery.   Q7: Why undergo COVID-19 testing?A: The test helps anyone with mild symptoms quickly determine if infected.   Q8: Can children take this test?A: Yes. Children who can follow instructions to produce deep throat saliva can take the test. If saliva collection is not possible, stool testing can be considered.   Q9: When will testing be linked to the Health Code application?A: The government will announce the application process, eligibility, and documentation. Please stay tuned.   Q10: Can this service be claimed through insurance?A: Insurance policies vary. A receipt will be issued for customers to inquire with their insurer about claim eligibility.    

Health Code - Exemption from Mandatory Quarantine As the pandemic comes under control, following Macau, Hong Kong is about to adopt the "Health Code" system. The Hong Kong Food and Health Bureau announced that the "Hong Kong Health Code" preparation is nearly complete. Once launched, Hong Kong residents only need to hold a valid virus test certificate to be exempt from quarantine when traveling between Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau; however, the related tests must be self-paid.   How to obtain a qualified test certificate?Anyone holding a valid COVID-19 nucleic acid test certificate can be exempted from quarantine when traveling between the three regions. Currently, eight private hospitals and labs in Hong Kong are recognized for nucleic acid test results accepted in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau. The government will announce further details soon. Those wishing to obtain the Health Code can get a referral from a doctor to undergo virus testing. If the result is negative, the authorized institution will upload the result and the person's information to the Health Code system. Applicants can apply online using the lab record. Once the personal Health Code is obtained, it is valid for seven days for quarantine-free travel in the three regions. Human Health Medical provides COVID-19 testing services through the government's authorized lab - Hong Kong Molecular Pathology Diagnostic Centre (HKMPDC). Details will be announced soon.   The Hong Kong Health Code replaces quarantine with virus test certification and coordinates with similar documents in Guangdong and Macau. Hong Kong residents will no longer face up to 28 days of mandatory quarantine when traveling between the three regions. The "Hong Kong Kang Code" applies only in Hong Kong. To be exempt from quarantine in Mainland China or Macau, additional applications for the "Guangdong Kang Code" and "Macau Kang Code" are necessary. After completing the nucleic acid test at an authorized institution, the results are uploaded to the Department of Health website. Passing the test allows applicants to obtain their "Hong Kong Kang Code" from the website and subsequently apply for other regional Health Codes by completing an online form with personal information.   Does the Hong Kong Kang Code have privacy concerns?The "Hong Kong Kang Code" only records nucleic acid test results, and information is not shared among the three regions. In contrast, Guangdong's "Guangdong Kang Code," developed via WeChat, includes multiple functions and is frequently used when entering/exiting locations, updating activity logs with personal health data such as body temperature and tracking travel history each scan. The Hong Kong version only requires showing the code at border checkpoints.   Does Macau have a Health Code?Macau's Health Bureau introduced the "Macau Health Code" with three color statuses—green, yellow, and red—assigned based on health history, contact, and travel history. Residents with a red code are sent to medical institutions for evaluation and possibly hospitalization; non-residents with a red code are denied entry. Yellow code holders are advised to self-manage health. Once red-code individuals complete a 14-day medical observation quarantine or treatment, the system automatically lifts the red status. Macau residents or foreign workers entering must present a green Macau Health Code with a valid nucleic acid test, generated or updated within six hours before entry via the Gongbei Port, exempting them from manual health quarantine checks and allowing direct access to automated border control.

This Father’s Day, Show Love Through Action Dad works hard every day to provide the best life for us so that we can grow up healthy and happy.Now that we’ve become independent, we hope he can enjoy good health, a carefree mind, and a fulfilling life.This Father’s Day, why not turn your care into action by arranging a comprehensive health check-up for your dad?Not sure which tests to choose? Here are some helpful tips:   What Can a Lipid Profile Detect? Since “the three highs” (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar) are chronic diseases that often go unnoticed, a lipid profile is an effective way to screen for potential issues early.   Is a Prostate Exam Necessary? Many men start experiencing prostate problems in middle age, such as pain or discomfort during urination.Because these are sensitive issues, many suffer in silence.Regular prostate check-ups can effectively detect prostate health concerns early, allowing timely treatment.   Should Dad Get the Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine? Vaccination can effectively prevent shingles and reduce the risk of postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain that may follow infection).It is recommended that individuals aged 50 and above receive the shingles vaccine to lower their risk.   Should the Heart Be Checked Even Without Symptoms? As we age, the risk of arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, and heart disease increases.Heart examinations such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram can assess the overall health and function of the heart.   Snoring—A Sign to Consider a Sleep Apnea Test? A sleep apnea screening can effectively detect sleep apnea early to prevent chronic oxygen deprivation to the brain.Early diagnosis also helps reduce the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease—and may prevent sudden death during sleep.   Why Is a Colonoscopy Important? A colonoscopy is an effective test for detecting colon polyps or early signs of colorectal cancer.Individuals aged 50–75 (born between 1944 and 1970) can participate in the government’s Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme for free testing.   The above information is intended for general reference and does not replace your doctor’s advice.If you have any questions, please consult your family physician.We accept no responsibility for any omission or error in this content.

Show Your Love This Mother’s Day with Care and Health Many people want to show love to their mothers on this special day.Aside from gifts, flowers, or taking her to a nice meal, why not show you care by paying attention to her health?Health is priceless—and safeguarding your mother’s wellbeing is the most meaningful gift you can give. In addition to common concerns like high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, here’s a list of other important health checks to help you turn love into action this Mother’s Day.   Should She Get a Mammogram or Breast Ultrasound Every Year? Breast cancer is the leading cancer among women in Hong Kong, and its incidence is rising with younger cases being reported.Self-examination may sometimes detect lumps, but by the time symptoms appear, the cancer might have already reached Stage 2.Women aged 40 and above should have a clinical breast exam and ultrasound scan every year, plus a mammogram every two years.A breast ultrasound distinguishes cysts from solid tumors, while a mammogram can detect microcalcifications that may indicate early cancer.Both tests complement each other for more accurate screening.   What Is a DEXA Bone Density Test? Does “Anti-resorptive Injection” Help Maintain Bone Health? Women begin losing bone mass around age 35, and this accelerates after menopause as estrogen levels drop sharply.Osteoporosis produces no obvious symptoms until fractures occur—commonly in the hip, spine, or forearm. Even minor impacts may result in fractures, and spinal collapse can cause back pain, stooping, or height loss. Some handheld bone scanners use ultrasound to measure heel bone density, but these are for screening only, not diagnosis.The standard method is the DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan. Besides calcium, vitamin D, sunlight exposure, and regular exercise, research has identified a naturally occurring protein called osteoprotegerin (OPG) that protects bone mass.The “anti-resorptive injection” mimics OPG to inhibit bone-resorbing cells, helping slow down bone loss and manage osteoporosis.   Should Elderly Mothers Still Get Cervical Screening and the HPV Vaccine? Cervical cancer, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), often has no symptoms in its early stages.By the time vaginal bleeding or abnormal discharge occurs, the disease may already be advanced.Fortunately, cervical cancer is preventable.Even women who are sexually active can gain protection from the HPV vaccine, and regular Pap smears are essential for detecting precancerous cell changes early.   Why Is a Colonoscopy Important? Colorectal cancer has become one of Hong Kong’s fastest-rising cancers and is now the second leading cause of cancer death.While the risk is higher in men, many women are also affected.Polyps in the colon typically take 10 years or more to develop into cancer, and early-stage cases often have no symptoms. The U.S. health authorities and Hong Kong’s Department of Health recommend regular colorectal cancer screening to detect and remove polyps early.If you or your family members are aged 50–75 (born between 1944 and 1970), you may be eligible for subsidized testing under the Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme.   Should Moms Get Vaccinated Against Shingles? Shingles (Herpes Zoster) is caused by the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus responsible for chickenpox.After recovery from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve tissues and can reactivate as immunity declines with age.This causes painful rashes or blisters, usually on one side of the body, particularly on the back or waist. Shingles pain can last for up to four weeks and severely affect daily life.If the infection reaches the eyes or ears, it may cause blindness or hearing loss.Those aged over 50 or who have previously had chickenpox have a higher risk—so vaccinating early can prevent suffering later.   Can Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections Relieve Joint Pain? The knee joint bears much of the body’s weight and is prone to wear and tear over time.As cartilage gradually deteriorates with age, symptoms like pain climbing stairs, stiffness, or soreness during weather changes may occur—signs of osteoarthritis. Research shows that hyaluronic acid injections can reduce joint friction, preserve cartilage, and slow degeneration.The procedure is simple: the doctor disinfects the joint area, inserts a fine needle into the space, and injects the hyaluronic acid—usually completed in 15 seconds. Patients can stand and walk immediately afterward. However, HA treatment is temporary—each injection lasts 3 to 6 months and is mainly effective for mild to moderate osteoarthritis.For severe degeneration, joint replacement surgery may be recommended.   This information is for general health awareness and should not replace your doctor’s professional advice.If you have questions, please consult your family physician.No responsibility will be assumed for any omissions or errors in the content.

What is Colorectal Cancer? Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers, and in recent years, it has become noticeably more prevalent among younger people.In the past, cases in people under 40 were extremely rare, but now there are reports of men in their twenties being diagnosed with late-stage colorectal cancer. This trend is closely linked to Westernized dietary habits. Colorectal cancer often begins with a small polyp—an abnormal growth on the inner wall of the colon—that can gradually turn cancerous over time.Early detection greatly improves treatment success. According to research by the University of Hong Kong, in Stage 1, cancer cells usually invade only the muscle layer of the colon wall, and the five-year survival rate can exceed 90%. However, by Stage 4, the cancer has often spread beyond the intestine to other organs, reducing the five-year survival rate to about 8%.   Why Should You Take a Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)? In the early stages, colorectal cancer often causes no symptoms or warning signs.The fecal occult blood test is a convenient, non-invasive screening tool that detects hidden (microscopic) blood in stool samples.When a tumor develops in the colon, small amounts of blood—often invisible to the naked eye—may mix with feces as it passes through. Participants can easily collect a small stool sample at home using a provided kit and return it to the clinic for lab analysis.Regular screening is recommended for adults aged 25 and above. A positive result indicates blood was detected but does not necessarily mean colorectal cancer is present. Other conditions—such as gastrointestinal ulcers, polyps, tumors, or hemorrhoids—can also produce positive results. Based on test findings, the doctor may refer the patient for a colonoscopy for further investigation.   Do I Still Need Regular Colonoscopy If I’ve Done the FOBT? Yes. The fecal occult blood test is not 100% accurate.Because only a small portion of stool is sampled and tumors may not bleed consistently, a result showing “no blood detected” does not completely rule out disease. For individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or other high-risk factors/symptoms, doctors may still recommend regular colonoscopy, which provides direct visualization of the colon and higher diagnostic accuracy.   Does the Government Subsidize Colorectal Cancer Screening? Yes.If you or a family member is aged 50 to 75 (born between 1944 and 1970), you are eligible for the government-subsidized Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme, which provides approved testing and follow-up care. More details:Hong Kong Colorectal Cancer Screening Programmehttps://www.colonscreen.gov.hk/tc/public/index.html HKU Research on Cancer Stem Cells Driving Colorectal Cancer Metastasishttps://www.med.hku.hk/f/news/502/810/75.pdf

Why Do Test Results Need to Be Repeated Before a Confirmed Diagnosis? Currently, there are two main types of COVID-19 testing: Viral genetic testing (PCR test) – the gold standard for diagnosing COVID-19. Antibody (serological) testing – mainly used as a supplementary diagnostic tool. Each test type has its own advantages and limitations. In general, results may need to be confirmed through repeated testing due to factors such as insufficient viral load or low antibody levels. Details are as follows: Viral Genetic Test Patients with mild symptoms may begin to recover 10–14 days after onset, during which viral levels decrease, making detection more difficult. The accuracy of results may be affected by the sampling site. If the sample contains too few viral particles, the result may not reflect the actual infection status. Antibody Test The immune system produces antibodies relatively slowly (usually around 7 days after infection), meaning levels may initially be too low to detect. Differences in reagent quality can reduce test sensitivity. Improper storage or transportation of test reagents can cause them to lose effectiveness. To minimize missed diagnoses, testing may need to be performed multiple times. Combining laboratory results with clinical symptoms and chest imaging can significantly improve diagnostic accuracy.   What Are False Negatives and False Positives? To understand this, note that test results do not only indicate positive or negative outcomes. They can also include false positives and false negatives, which represent inaccurate results. False Positive (FP): A positive test result even though the person is not infected. False Negative (FN): A negative test result even though the person is infected. Result Positive Negative Has disease True Positive False Negative No disease False Positive True Negative   What Causes False Results? Possible reasons include: Low viral load during the early stage of infection, resulting in a false negative. Sample collected from a site with insufficient viral presence. Differences in testing materials between laboratories. Improper sample collection technique. Degradation of the virus due to environmental conditions. Contamination of samples during testing, leading to a false positive. Highly sensitive tests can detect more true positive cases accurately. In contrast, low-sensitivity tests may produce more false negatives, causing infected individuals to wrongly believe they are virus-free and delaying treatment. Therefore, repeated testing, along with clinical assessment and lung imaging, is essential to ensure diagnostic accuracy and confirm or rule out infection.