********************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health urged members of the public to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of an imported case by laboratory test today (July 17).
The patient, a 62-year-old man living in Southern District, developed fever and tiredness on July 11 and was been admitted to a private hospital on Hong Kong Island on July 15. He is now in stable condition.
CHP's investigations revealed that he had travelled to Indonesia alone from June 25 to July 5.
This is the 13th case of imported dengue fever so far this year. There were 31 cases in 2006 and all of them were classified as imported cases.
A spokesman for CHP urged members of the public 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 17, 2007
Issued at HKT 19:10
NNNN
