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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has urged people to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation today (August 6) of an imported case by laboratory test.
The patient is a 23-year-old woman who developed fever, muscle pain and tiredness on July 17. She arrived in Hong Kong from Indonesia on July 19. She was admitted to Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital on July 22 and was discharged on July 30.
There have been 18 imported cases of dengue fever so far this year. There were 31 cases in 2006 and all were classified as imported.
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;
* Tightly cover 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 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, August 6, 2007
Issued at HKT 17:58
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