The Centre for Health Protection is investigating a human case of myiasis involving a 61-year-old resident of a Tsuen Wan elderly home. He is now stable in Princess Margaret Hospital.

When he was hospitalised on April 18 for peritoneal dialysis, maggots were found in a wound on his right foot.

This is this year's fourth case of human myiasis. There were 14 reports last year, 15 in 2006 and six in 2005.

The disease occurs when fly larvae infest superficial wounds and orifices like the mouth, ear and nose and feed off the tissue. It may cause serious tissue damage, loss of function, skin injury, secondary invasion and death.

People, especially elderly homes staff, should take measures to guard against it. For preventive tips, click here.