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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 1) is investigating a confirmed case of dengue fever and urged people to guard against the disease.
The case involved a 26-year-old man who developed bone pain, myalgia and malaise on March 26 and fever on March 28. The man was admitted to United Christian Hospital on March 29 and was discharged yesterday (March 31) in stable condition.
His serum tested positive for dengue fever virus.
The CHP's investigation revealed that the man came from Surinam on March 26. His home contacts in Hong Kong are asymptomatic.
The CHP will continue to follow up the case.
This is the seventh case of dengue fever 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 seek medical advice 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/Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Issued at HKT 18:26
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