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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (August 13) urged members of the public to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of two imported cases by laboratory test.
The first case involved a 25-year-old man who travelled to Bangladesh between June 15 and August 5. He developed symptoms of dengue fever including fever, bone pain and retro-orbital pain on August 1 and sought medical attention in Bangladesh. He also saw a private doctor after his return to Hong Kong on August 5. He is in stable condition and no hospitalisation is required.
His family members did not have any symptom of dengue fever.
In the second case, a 19-year-old man developed fever and chills on August 4 and was admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital on August 9. He was discharged yesterday.
CHP's investigation revealed that he had travelled to Thailand from July 31 to August 4 and his travel collaterals and home contacts were all asymptomatic.
A total of 21 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/Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:31
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