Severe acute respiratory syndrome has claimed the life of another frontline medical worker, a 35-year-old doctor in the department of medicine and geriatrics at Tuen Mun Hospital.

Tse Yuen-man had been caring for SARS patients at the end of March. She was infected while directly treating patients and was hospitalised on April 3. She was transferred to the intensive-care unit on April 15. Despite active medical treatment, she passed away early this morning.

Sympathetic showing: Scores of people including hospital colleagues write messages of condolence at Tuen Mun Hospital for its fallen doctor Tse Yuen-man.

Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa said he was deeply saddened to hear of Dr Tse's death.

"She has demonstrated the highest level of professionalism and courage in helping other people. I believe the whole community will not forget her selfless devotion."

Chief Secretary Donald Tsang said the Government will spare no effort in helping Dr Tse's family handle her funeral-related issues.  

Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr Yeoh Eng-kiong said he grieved the loss of "a committed medical staff who has demonstrated a high level of professionalism, dedication and devotion to her duties."

He sent his condolences to her family.

"We're all saddened here by the death of the doctor," Secretary for the Civil Service Joseph Wong said. "She has given up her life in taking care of the SARS patients. I'm sure we will all show our greatest respect to her."

Based on the precedent that was set for Lau Wing Kai, a former Tuen Mun Hospital nurse, and because what she has done is a courageous act in the fight against SARS, if her family wishes, Dr Tse's body will also be buried in Gallant Garden, Mr Wong said.

Dr Cheung Wai-lun, the Chief Executive of Tuen Mun Hospital, said he was deeply sorry for the loss of this colleague. On behalf of the New Territories West Cluster of public hospitals, he offered condolences to Dr Tse's family and pledged that all necessary support and assistance would be provided to them.

Dr Cheung also expressed heartfelt appreciation for the staff's professionalism and utmost commitment to patient care.

Hospital Authority Chairman Dr Leong Che-hung and Chief Executive Dr William Ho also expressed deepest regret at the loss of a committed and valuable staff member, and sent their condolences to Dr Tse's family. They will receive funds from the Hospital Authority's Charitable Foundation.

Psychological support to all staff will be arranged, Dr Cheung said. The well being of medical staff and the public remains a top priority to minimise further SARS infections. 

Tuen Mun Hospital has designated an area in its lobby as a mourning corner for members of the public to pay tribute to Dr Tse.