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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 21) urged members of the public to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of an imported case by laboratory test.
The case involved a 63-year-old man living in North Point. He developed fever and diarrhoea on February 3, was admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Easten Hospital on February 10, and discharged on February 19.
CHP's investigations revealed that he had travelled alone to Indonesia between January 11 and February 1.
This is the fifth imported case of dengue fever reported so far this year. 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 a 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, February 21, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:38
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