The Scientific Committee on Vector-borne Diseases (SCVBD) under the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) met today (August 28) to review the latest situation of local dengue fever (DF) and the Government's prevention and control measures.
 
     Members noted that as of yesterday, 26 confirmed local DF cases have been recorded this year. Based on the CHP's epidemiological investigations, two sources of infection, namely Lion Rock Park and Cheung Chau, have been identified.
 
     At the meeting, representatives from the CHP and Food and Environmental Hygiene Department presented to members the prevention and control measures carried out by the Government in response to the recent outbreak. Members reiterated the importance of isolating confirmed patients in mosquito-free environments during their febrile period to prevent potential transmission of dengue viruses to mosquitoes. In addition, they acknowledged that the prompt and intensive anti-mosquito operations carried out at this critical moment have been effective in preventing further spread of DF. They also agreed that the intensive anti-mosquito measures must be continued in the coming months in all districts to prevent DF from taking root in Hong Kong.
 
     The Controller of the CHP, Dr Wong Ka-hing, said, "Apart from the Government's prevention and control measures, the prevention of secondary spread of DF as well as the carrying out of anti-mosquito measures by members of the public are equally important.
 
     "Scientific studies have shown that infected persons can transmit the virus to mosquitoes through mosquito bites even if they remain asymptomatic or before their onset of symptoms, leading to further spread of the disease. People who have visited Lion Rock Park should be advised to apply insect repellent for 14 days after their last visit, and those with DF symptoms should seek medical advice as early as possible. Meanwhile, people who reside in or visit Cheung Chau should also be advised to apply insect repellent during their stay and continue applying for 14 days after their last day of stay to prevent infection and secondary spread.
 
     "We will take on board experts' views in reinforcing ongoing prevention and control measures. The CHP will closely monitor the local situation and revise its response if necessary," Dr Wong said.
 
     The CHP has provided information and locations of the residences and local movements of the local DF cases on the CHP's designated webpage for DF to facilitate handy access to the outbreak information for the public.
 
     The public should call 1823 in case of mosquito problems and may visit the DF pages of the CHP and its Travel Health Service, the latest Travel Health News, tips for using insect repellents, the CHP Facebook Page and YouTube Channel, and the FEHD's Guidebook on Control and Prevention of Mosquito Breeding for more information.

Ends/Tuesday, August 28, 2018
Issued at HKT 18:40

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