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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health urged members of the public to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of an imported case by laboratory test today (September 27).
The case involved a 45-year-old man living in Tsing Yi. He developed fever, headache, dizziness and joint and muscle pain on September 21 and was admitted to Yan Chai Hospital on September 23. He has recovered and was discharged on September 25.
CHP's investigations revealed that he had travelled to Macau from August 20 to September 17. His family members did not have any symptom of dengue fever.
A total of 45 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 members of the public to stay alert to the threat of dengue fever and help preventing 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/Thursday, September 27, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:45
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