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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 26) urged members of the public to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of an imported case by laboratory test.
The case involved a 55-year-old male tourist arriving in Hong Kong on June 17 from Thailand. He developed symptoms of dengue fever including fever and headache on the same day. He was admitted to Ruttonjee Hospital on June 19 and was discharged on June 21.
Sixteen cases of imported dengue fever have been reported to the CHP so far this year. Fifty-eight cases were reported 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, June 26, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:15
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