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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (April 23) investigating a confirmed case of dengue fever and urged people to guard against the disease.
The case involved a 29-year-old man who developed fever, headache and retro-orbital pain on April 14 and was admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital the same day. He is now in stable condition.
His serum tested positive for the dengue fever virus.
The CHP's investigation revealed that the man travelled in Thailand alone during the incubation period. His home contact in Hong Kong had no symptoms of the disease.
The CHP will continue to follow up the case.
This is the 14th 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/Thursday, April 23, 2009
Issued at HKT 18:01
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