***********************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 30) urged people to guard against dengue fever following the laboratory confirmation of two cases.
The first case involved a 60-year-old man who developed fever, headache and bone pain on March 20 and was admitted to a private hospital on Hong Kong Island on the same day. He was transferred to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital on March 27 for further management and is now in stable condition.
The CHP's investigation revealed that the man went to Indonesia between February 26 and March 20. His wife, who travelled with him, is asymptomatic.
In the second case, a 51-year-old woman developed fever, headache, muscle pain and rash on March 16. She visited private doctors and later was admitted to Yan Chai Hospital on March 24. She is now in stable condition.
Investigation revealed that she travelled to Indonesia alone from January 15 to March 14. Her home contact did not have symptoms.
The CHP will continue to follow up the cases.
Six cases of dengue fever have been reported to the CHP this year. A total of 42 cases of dengue fever were reported in 2008. All were classified as imported cases.
A spokesman for the 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 "Travel Health News" on the Hong Kong Travel Health Service website at 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/Monday, March 30, 2009
Issued at HKT 19:01
NNNN
