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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 10) provided an update on the number of cases of dengue fever (DF) in Hong Kong, and called on the public to take preventive measures to guard against DF.
One new confirmed case was recorded between April 2 and 9, involving a patient who had travelled to Indonesia during the incubation period. As of April 9, there have been 21 confirmed cases of DF in Hong Kong this year, and all were imported cases.
DF is a common mosquito-borne disease. The symptoms include fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, loss of appetite, nausea and rash. Some infected people may not develop apparent symptoms, and some may only have mild symptoms like fever. From 2005 to 2014, a total of 585 cases of DF were recorded in Hong Kong, with no deaths.
"At present, no effective vaccine for DF is available. Therefore, the best preventive measures are to avoid mosquito bites and to eliminate pockets of stagnant water that serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes," a spokesman for the CHP said.
Travellers should take the following preventive measures against DF:
* Wear loose, light-coloured, long-sleeved tops and trousers;
* Use DEET-containing insect repellent on exposed parts of the body and clothing; and
* Use mosquito screens or nets in rooms that are not air-conditioned.
The incubation period of dengue fever ranges from three to 14 days, commonly four to seven days. Anyone feeling unwell after returning from a trip should seek medical advice as soon as possible and provide travel details to their doctor.
The latest information on DF 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.
Members of the public should prevent the accumulation of stagnant water by:
* Disposing of all used cans and containers in covered rubbish bins;
* Changing the water in vases with plants once a week in order to prevent accumulation of stagnant water in the saucers;
* Covering all containers, wells and water storage points;
* Ensuring air-conditioner drip trays are free of stagnant water;
* Keeping all drains clear; and
* Paving all uneven ground.
More information on mosquito control can be found on the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department's website at www.fehd.gov.hk/english/safefood/handbook_prev_mos_breeding.html.
Ends/Friday, April 10, 2015
Issued at HKT 16:01
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