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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 of an imported case by laboratory test today (August 14).
The patient is a 16-year-old girl. She left Holland for Indonesia with her family members on July 14 and developed fever and skin rash on August 2. She arrived in Hong Kong on August 8 and was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital on August 9. The girl was discharged on August 12 and returned to Holland.
This is the 21st imported dengue fever case so far this year. There were 31 cases in 2006 and all 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;
* 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 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, August 14, 2007
Issued at HKT 19:14
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