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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 22) urged members of the public to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of an imported case by laboratory test.
The case involved a 22-year-old man living in Hung Hom. He first developed fever, headache and muscle pain on February 14. Rashes were found on his body on February 19 and he sought medical treatment from the Accident and Emergency Department of Queen Elizabeth Hospital on the same day. No hospitalisation was required.
CHP's investigations revealed that he had travelled to Thailand between January 31 and February 9. His two travel companions did not have any symptoms of dengue fever.
This is the sixth 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 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/Friday, February 22, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:51
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