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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (July 10) urged people to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of an imported case by laboratory test.
The patient, a 22-year-old female tourist, developed fever, headache, muscle and joint pain and skin rash on June 28. She arrived in Hong Kong and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on July 3. She is now in stable condition.
CHP's investigations revealed that she had travelled to the Philippines and the Mainland with a companion during the incubation period. The companion did not show any symptoms of dengue fever.
This is the 11th 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/Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:49
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