HTLV

HTLV is very rarely found in Hong Kong. The virus is endemic in southwestern Japan and the Caribbean region. This virus is associated with Adult T-cell Leukaemia and a form of disease of the spinal cord. Most carriers will not develop the disease in their life time. The virus also causes no damage to the health of the carrier during the incubation period.

Studies in endemic areas show that HTLV is contracted primarily during infancy and the incubation period usually lasts for 30 years or more. Up to now there has not been a single documented case of Adult T-cell Leukaemia acquired through transfusion of blood contaminated with HTLV. HTLV can be contracted through breast feeding, sexual contact and infected blood. But the rate of infection is low. An HTLV carrier should refrain from breast feeding and blood donation, and is advised to use a condom during sexual intercourse. The virus cannot be transmitted through social contacts including sharing of meals, and therefore special precautions are not necessary.