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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 6) urged members of the public to guard against dengue fever following the laboratory confirmation of a case.
The case involved a 14-year-old boy who travelled to Indonesia with four relatives between January 21 and February 3. He developed fever, headache, muscle pain and rashes on January 29 and sought medical treatment in Indonesia the next day.
He consulted private doctor upon returning to Hong Kong on February 3 and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital the same day. He is now in stable condition.
The CHP's investigation revealed that two of his travel companions had had fever while the rest are asymptomatic.
The CHP will continue to follow up the case.
This is the second case of dengue fever reported to the CHP this year. A total of 42 cases of dengue fever were reported in 2008. All 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 "Travel Health News" on the Hong Kong Travel Health Service website at 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, February 6, 2009
Issued at HKT 19:26
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