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The Government will continue to take vigorous measures against the spread of dengue fever in Hong Kong to safeguard public health.
This remark was made by the Chairman of the Inter-departmental Co-ordinating Committee (ICC) on dengue fever, Dr Tse Lai-yin, after the 8th ICC meeting today (May 16).
Formed by representatives from relevant Government departments and the Hospital Authority, the Committee today reported on the progress made in vector control and the promotion of public participation in preventing dengue fever.
"We are delighted to see that sustained and dedicated efforts have been made by the members on eliminating mosquito breeding grounds and maintaining good environmental hygiene in the areas under their management.
"During today's meeting, the members also outlined their forthcoming plans and activities to prevent the spread of dengue fever with an aim to enhance co-ordination. In addition to the ongoing measures, the members are now stepping up mosquito control and public education with the onset of the wet season.
"Even though the Government and the public are making an all out and concerted effort to prevent the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome for the time being, members of the meeting unanimously maintained that the threat of dengue fever to public health should not be underestimated.
Noting that a total of 12 imported cases of dengue fever have been detected so far this year, which is twice the number recorded in the corresponding period of 2002, Dr Tse said that strenuous and continuous effort must be maintained by the Government should the health of the public be safeguarded.
"At the same time, public alertness on dengue fever and their active participation in the anti-mosquito campaign were essential to prevent the spread of the disease," Dr Tse said.
Dengue fever is a viral infection caused by dengue virus. The virus is transmitted by infective mosquitoes that bite during the day. A mosquito vector that is capable of transmitting dengue virus exists in Hong Kong and is called Aedes albopictus. Dengue fever is not transmitted directly from person to person.
The disease presents with sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, retro-orbital, bone and muscle pain, nausea and vomiting, followed by a rash three to four days later. Occassionally, the disease may progress to dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) with bleeding and shock, leading to death.
Dr Tse said the public must always remain vigilant against the disease as it is endemic in our neighbouring countries and our weather is favourable to the propagation of the mosquitoes carrying dengue virus.
She said that the most effective control strategy against dengue fever was to enhance disease surveillance and control the mosquito vector.
Dr Tse urged members of the public to clear stagnant water in their homes and surrounding areas to avoid breeding of mosquitoes.
They should:
* Put all cans and bottles into dustbins with cover;
* Change water for plants at least once a week, leaving no water in the saucers underneath flower pots;
* Cover tightly all water containers, wells and water storage tanks; and
* Keep all drains free from choke;
* Fill up unlevelled grounds.
She advised people travelling outside Hong Kong to adopt the following preventive measures to protect themselves against dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases:
* Wear long-sleeved clothes and long trousers;
* Use insect repellent over the exposed parts of the body;
* Use mosquito screens or nets when the room is not air-conditioned; and
* Avoid staying in scrubby areas.
People who return from a dengue-infected area and fall sick within one month should immediately consult a doctor and give complete travel history to facilitate early diagnosis and management.
In 2002, 20 local cases and 24 imported cases of dengue fever were recorded in Hong Kong. All of the patients recovered.
End/Friday, May 16, 2003
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