***************************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has urged people to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation today (August 20) of an imported case by laboratory test today.
The case involved a 17-year-old youth who travelled to the Philippines with 15 other people from July 23 to August 5. He developed symptoms of dengue fever including fever, skin rash and bone pain on August 9 and was admitted to a private hospital in Kowloon on August 14. He was discharged on August 19.
Four of his travel companions were confirmed last week to have infected with dengue fever. Three of them were discharged after hospitalisation.
A total of 29 cases of imported dengue fever have been reported to the CHP so far this year. 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;
* 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/Monday, August 20, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:32
NNNN