Public is urged to stay vigilant against dengue fever
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     The Centre for Health Protection urged members of the public who are planning to travel outside Hong Kong during the coming Easter holidays to take precautions against dengue fever. People are also urged to take effective measures in preventing proliferation of mosquitoes as the rainy season is approaching.

     The Interdepartmental Coordinating Committee on Mosquito-borne Diseases (ICC) convened a meeting on March 18 to examine the latest situation regarding mosquito-borne diseases, especially dengue fever, and reaffirm that concerted effective anti-mosquito work will continue to be carried out.

     Dengue fever is endemic in most Southeast Asian countries, including various popular tourist destinations for Hong Kong people. According to the latest available information as of mid-March this year, 23 966, 4 886, 1 999 and 3 575 cases have been recorded in Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and the Philippines respectively, while 108 698, 39 157, 18 318 and 113 485 cases were reported respectively in the four countries in 2014. In Indonesia, 112 511 and 69 018 cases of dengue haemorrhagic fever were recorded in 2013 and 2014, respectively.

     Locally, 19 confirmed cases of dengue fever have been recorded as of March 19 this year. All are imported cases with most of them contracted while travelling to or staying in Southeast Asian countries during the incubation period.

     Travellers are advised to protect themselves against mosquitoes all year round and take the following preventive measures against dengue fever:

* Wear loose, light-coloured, long-sleeved tops and trousers;
* Use DEET-containing insect repellent on exposed parts of the body and clothing; and
* Use mosquito screens or nets in rooms that are not air-conditioned.

     Anyone feeling unwell after returning from a trip should seek medical advice as soon as possible and provide travel details to their 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.

     Mosquito control is of utmost importance to prevent the spread of dengue fever. Members of the public should prevent the accumulation of stagnant water by:

* Disposing of all used cans and containers in covered rubbish bins;
* Changing the water in vases with plants once a week in order to prevent accumulation of stagnant water in the saucers;
* Covering all containers, wells and water storage points;
* Ensuring air-conditioner drip trays are free of stagnant water;
* Keeping all drains clear; and
* Paving all uneven ground.

     More information on mosquito control can be found on the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department's website at www.fehd.gov.hk/english/safefood/handbook_prev_mos_breeding.html .

Ends/Friday, March 20, 2015
Issued at HKT 17:29

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