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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 (October 5) of an imported case by laboratory test.
The case involved a 42-year-old man living in Hung Hom. He developed fever, bone and eye pain on September 21 and consulted a private doctor on September 24. He has recovered without hospitalisation.
CHP's investigations revealed that he had travelled to Thailand from September 9 to 15. His family members and travelling companion did not have any symptoms of dengue fever.
A total of 49 imported cases of dengue fever have been reported to the CHP so far this year. There were 31 cases in 2006.
A spokesman for CHP urged people to stay alert to the threat of dengue fever and help prevent 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 travelers can visit the website for the latest news and advice on preventive measures.
Ends/Friday, October 5, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:01
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