2005-02-15
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health confirmed an imported case of malaria and urged the public to guard against the disease.
Case details are as follow:
Age: 31
Sex: Female
Date of Onset: February 8, 2005
Place of residence: Cheung Chau
Symptoms: Fever, malaise and neck pain
Present Condition: Attended Accident and Emergency Department of Queen Mary Hospital on February 13, 2005 and transferred to Princess Margaret Hospital on February 14. Now in hospital in stable condition.
Travel History: Travelled to Guinea in Africa since November 21, 2004. Returned to Hong Kong on February 10, 2005.
The patient stayed in Cheung Chau before admission. A health talk will be held in Cheung Chau on February 16, 2005 to alert the residents in Cheung Chau to take precautions against malaria
Cumulative Total in 2005: 4
* imported: 4
* local: 0
The number of cases received by DH in recent years: 37 cases in 2004, 28 cases in 2003. All were imported cases.
It is essential that members of the public stay alert to the threat of malaria and take measures to avoid mosquito bites:
- install mosquito screens and mosquito nets.
- use insect repellents over exposed parts of the body.
- wear long sleeved clothes and long trousers when going out.
- when travelling to areas where malaria is common, consult a doctor two to three weeks beforehand for preventive measures and medication if necessary.
Anyone feeling unwell during their visits abroad or after returning from their trip should consult a doctor as soon as possible and provide details of their travel to the doctor.
Latest information on infectious diseases of concern to travellers abroad can be found under "Outbreak News" on the department's Hong Kong Travellers' Health Service website http://www.info.gov.hk/trhealth. Travel agents, tour guides and travellers can visit the website for the latest news and advice on preventive measures.
Ends/Tuesday, February 15, 2005