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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health urged people to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation today (July 9) of an imported case by laboratory test.
The patient, a 20-year-old woman living in Hung Hom, developed fever, headache, muscle pain and tiredness on June 11 and was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital on June 18. She had recovered and was discharged from hospital on June 21.
Her home contacts did not have any symptoms of dengue fever.
CHP's investigations revealed that she had travelled to Cambodia with 10 companions from June 4 to 11. One of the companions, a 25-year-old man, developed fever, headache, dizziness, and tiredness on June 13 and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on June 25. He had recovered and was discharged on June 26. Further tests on dengue fever are pending.
Today's case is the 10th imported dengue fever reported in 2007. There were 31 cases in 2006 and all of them were classified as imported cases.
A spokesman for CHP urged people to stay alert to the threat of dengue fever and help preventing mosquito breeding by taking the following measures:
* Put all used cans and bottles into dustbins with covers;
* 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 tops and trousers;
* Use insect repellent on the exposed parts of the body; and
* Use mosquito screens or nets when rooms are not air-conditioned.
Anyone feeling unwell after returning from their trip should consult a doctor as soon as possible and provide details of their travel to the doctor.
The latest information on dengue fever in other places can be found under "Outbreak News" on the Hong Kong Travel Health Service website http://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.
Ends/Monday, July 9, 2007
Issued at HKT 19:00
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