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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 8) urged people to guard against dengue fever following the laboratory confirmation of two new cases.
The first case involved a 56-year-old woman who developed fever, headache, muscle pain, bone pain and retro-orbital pain on March 31. She was admitted to a private hospital on Hong Kong Island on April 4 and was discharged yesterday. She is now in stable condition.
CHP's investigation revealed that the woman went to Indonesia alone between March 22-27. Her family members in Hong Kong are asymptomatic.
In the second case, a 59-year-old woman developed fever, headache, joint pain, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting and dizziness on March 29 and was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital the next day.
Investigation revealed that she had travelled alone to Indonesia from February 28 to March 27. Her family members in Hong Kong are asymptomatic.
Ten 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/Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Issued at HKT 19:16
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