*****************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 9) urged people to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of an imported case by laboratory test.
The patient, a 76-year-old woman living in Tsing Yi, developed fever on April 26 and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on April 27. She was discharged on May 8 and is now in stable condition.
CHP's investigations revealed that she had travelled to Indonesia from March 27 to April 20. Her travel companion did not have any symptoms of dengue fever.
This is the eighth imported dengue fever reported in 2007. There were 31 cases in 2006 and all of them were classified as imported cases.
A spokesman for CHP urged people to stay alert to the threat of dengue fever and help prevent mosquito breeding by taking the following measures:
* Put all used cans and bottles into dustbins with covers;
* 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 blockage.
Travellers should take the following preventive measures:
* Wear long-sleeved tops and trousers;
* Use insect repellent on the exposed parts of the body; and
* Use mosquito screens or nets when rooms are not air-conditioned.
Anyone feeling unwell after returning from their trip should consult a doctor as soon as possible and provide details of their travel to the doctor.
The latest information on dengue fever in other places can be found under "Outbreak News" on the Hong Kong Travel Health Service website http://www.travelhealth.gov.hk/eindex.html. Travel agents, tour guides and travellers can visit the website for the latest news and advice on preventive measures.
Ends/Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:41
NNNN
