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The Department of Health (DH) today (September 3) confirmed one more imported case of dengue fever and urged members of the public to guard against the disease.

Case details are as follow:

Age: 11

Sex: Male

Date of Onset: August 25, 2003

Symptoms: Fever, bone pain and skin rash

Present Condition: Recovered and discharged from Tseung Kwan O Hospital on September 1.

Travel History: Travelled to a South-east Asian country from July 27 to August 24, 2003

Cumulative Total in 2003: imported : 36 local : 0

A DH spokesman said, "Public alertness on the threat of dengue fever and their active participation in the anti-mosquito efforts are essential to prevent dengue fever.

Members of the public are urged to actively participate in the prevention of mosquito bites:

* put all used cans and bottles into dustbins with cover,

* change water for plants at least once a week, leaving no water in the saucers underneath flower pots,

* cover tightly 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 clothes and trousers;

* use insect repellent over exposed parts of the body; and

* use mosquito screens or nets when the room is not air-conditioned.

End/Wednesday, September 3, 2003

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