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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (August 29) urged people to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of an imported case by laboratory test.
The case involved a 38-year-old female tourist who developed symptoms of dengue fever including fever, malaise and rash one day before her arrival in Hong Kong on August 11. She was admitted to a private hospital in the Hong Kong Island on August 15. She was discharged and had left Hong Kong.
According to CHP's investigation, the tourist had travelled to Indonesia and Singapore before coming to Hong Kong.
A total of 27 cases of imported dengue fever have been reported to the CHP so far this year. 58 cases were reported in 2007 and all of them were classified as imported cases.
A spokesman for CHP urged the public to stay alert to the threat of dengue fever and to 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, 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/Friday, August 29, 2008
Issued at HKT 17:51
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