The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     In view of recent local cases of dengue fever, the Central Committee on Infectious Disease and Emergency Responses of the Hospital Authority (HA) today (August 11) convened an ad hoc meeting, which was joined by representatives from the Centre for Health Protection (CHP), to discuss the risk assessment and preparedness of public hospitals.

     "While the local case is sporadic, according to current risk assessment, there have been more than 60 imported cases this year. The HA has reminded healthcare staff to stay vigilant to identify patients for early diagnosis and treatment amid the peak travelling season," the HA spokesperson said.

     To stay ahead of the situation, the following key initiatives were agreed on during the meeting in preparation for the possible risk of the disease being spread in Hong Kong:
 

• The HA will closely monitor any increasing trend in dengue fever test requests and their results from hospitals, in addition to the situation of confirmed cases, both local and imported;
• Laboratory tests for clinical diagnosis of dengue fever are currently provided by the Public Health Laboratory Services Branch of the CHP, while the HA laboratory network will stand by to enhance the capacity of the laboratory test service should the situation warrant it;
• Designated clinics will be ready for activation in phases if required; and
• As infected patients are required to stay in a mosquito-free environment, mosquito control measures have been stepped up in public hospitals, alongside enhanced pest control measures in all HA premises as a general mosquito control measure.

     The Operational Plan for Dengue Fever Outbreak was also finalised in the meeting today for internal promulgation, while front-line units can walk through and familiarise themselves with the plan in advance.

     The HA spokesperson appealed to members of the public residing in the vicinity of Boundary Street, Prince Edward, and travellers returning from dengue fever affected areas to inform healthcare staff while seeking medical consultation at public hospitals and clinics.

     The HA will continue to closely collaborate with the CHP to monitor developments and keep the general public and professionals posted on the most updated situation and relevant information.

Ends/Friday, August 11, 2017
Issued at HKT 18:35

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