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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (July 30) urged people to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation by laboratory test of an imported case.
The case involved a 34-year-old woman living in Central and Western District. She developed symptoms of dengue fever including fever and skin rash on July 21 and was admitted to Queen Mary Hospital on July 25. She is now in stable condition.
CHP's investigation revealed that she had travelled to the Philippines from July 9 to 21. Her home contacts did not have any symptoms of dengue fever.
Seventeen cases of imported dengue fever have been reported to the CHP so far this year. Last year, 58 cases were reported 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;
* Tightly cover 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/Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:05
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