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With effect from April 17, all passengers departing at the Hong Kong International Airport will be required to have their body temperature taken before check-in.
The measure is part of the government's strategies to contain the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), a spokesman for the Department of Health said today (April 16).
The measure is also in line with the World Health Organisation travel advice that people departing from affected areas should be screened for possible SARS at the point of departure.
"Starting from midnight tonight, any outbound passengers with a body temperature of over 38 degrees Celsius would be required to seek medical advice. Passengers who have fever or symptoms suggestive of SARS should not board a plane.
"The measure will ensure that people who have fever or SARS symptoms could get appropriate treatment before leaving Hong Kong.
"Members of the Auxiliary Medical Service will be responsible for taking the body temperature of departing passengers. The Airport Authority (AA), airlines and other relevant parties will provide support and assistance," the spokesman said.
The spokesman pointed out that the measures may bring
some inconvenience to the passengers but he hoped travelers would understand that it is an essential measure for the sake of themselves and the international community.
"As the arrangement may take time, departing passengers are advised to arrive at the airport early," the spokesman said.
Passengers are advised to check with their carriers for lead time required prior to flight departure. Information on measures for outbound passengers is available on AA's internet website http://www.hongkongairport.com.
End/Wednesday, April 16, 2003
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