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Hong Kong will gradually scale down health screening measures at all immigration control points (ICPs) starting from July 1, a spokesman for the Department of Health (DH) said today (June 29).

"The decision was made after careful assessment of the threat of the resurgence of SARS in Hong Kong and her neighbouring areas," the spokesman said.

Noting that Hong Kong has been free from SARS since June 2003 and that the Mainland authority has stood down the relevant health screening measures at her check points, the spokesman said it is appropriate to adjust Hong Kong's existing border health screening measures to reflect the actual situation.

With effect from July 1 this year, travellers will no longer be required to submit health declaration forms. Body temperature check for travellers leaving Hong Kong will cease with effect from July 12.

Temperature screening will be maintained for all in-bound travellers.

A new health message will be broadcast at ICPs to encourage travellers to approach the medical posts if they have symptoms such as fever, cough or breathlessness.

"The modified health screening measures at ICPs could protect public health and at the same time would not cause unnecessary inconvenience to travellers," the spokesman said.

End/Tuesday, June 29, 2004

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