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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health urged people to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation today (September 14) of an imported cases by laboratory test.
The case involved a 39-year-old woman living in Happy Valley. She developed fever, joint pain and rash on August 31 and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on September 11. She has recovered and was discharged on September 12.
CHP's investigations revealed that she had travelled alone to the Philippines from August 7 to 27. Her home contacts did not have any symptom of dengue fever.
A total of 42 imported cases of dengue fever have been reported to the CHP so far this year. There were 31 cases in 2006.
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;
* Tightly cover 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.
Ends/Friday, September 14, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:22
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