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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 10) urged the public to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation by laboratory test of the first two cases reported in 2008.
The cases involved an expatriate couple living in Discovery Bay. The 60-year-old wife and her 70-year-old husband both developed fever, malaise and poor appetite on January 1. They were admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on January 4 and were discharged on January 8.
CHP's investigations revealed that the couple had travelled to Indonesia between December 21 and December 28, 2007. Their travel collaterals and home contacts did not have any symptom of dengue fever.
There were 58 cases in 2007 and all of them are classified as imported cases.
A spokesman for CHP urged the public to stay alert to the threat of dengue fever and to 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 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, January 10, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:20
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