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The Department of Health (DH) today (September 29) confirmed two more imported cases of dengue fever and urged members of the public to guard against the disease.

Details of the two cases are as follow:

Age: 49

Sex: Male

Date of Onset: August 27, 2003

Symptoms:Fever, headache, myalgia and skin rash

Present Condition:

Recovered and discharged from Prince of Wales Hospital

Travel History: Travelled to a Southeast Asian country from August 15 to 24, 2003

Age: 21

Sex: Male

Date of Onset: August 26, 2003

Symptoms:Fever, myalgia, skin rash

Present Condition:

Recovered. No hospitalization required.

Travel History: Travelled to a Southeast Asian country from August 15 to 24, 2003

Cumulative Total in 2003:

imported : 41

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 choke,

Travellers should take the following preventive measures :

* wear long-sleeved clothes and trousers;

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

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

End/Monday, September 29, 2003

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