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The Secretary for Food and Health, Dr Ko Wing-man, met with representatives of the travel industry this morning (June 3) to brief them on the latest global situation of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and dengue fever.
Dr Ko pointed out that more than 600 MERS cases have been reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) globally so far. The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has been working closely with the WHO and overseas and neighbouring health authorities with a view to seeking more information on cases of MERS reported as well as monitoring the latest developments of the disease.
During the meeting, Dr Ko reiterated that travel agents organising tours to the Middle East should not arrange camel rides and activities involving camel contact. In addition, tour escorts should remind their group members to avoid contact with animals (especially camels) which may increase the risk of infection of MERS.
As regards dengue fever, Dr Ko said that there have been 24 confirmed cases of dengue fever reported to the CHP this year and 103 cases last year, which were all imported cases. Considering the large number of cases of dengue fever reported in some places in the Asian region, Dr Ko urged the travel trade to remind customers travelling to areas where dengue fever is prevalent to take anti-mosquito precautions, including using insect repellent properly.
Representatives of the travel industry attending today's meeting included Legislative Council Member Mr Yiu Si-wing; the Chairman of the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong, Mr Michael Wu; the Executive Director of the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong, Mr Joseph Tung; and representatives from more than 20 travel agents.
Ends/Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Issued at HKT 18:40
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