2007-06-27
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health urged members of the public to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of an imported case by laboratory test today (June 27).
The patient, a 45-year-old man living in Kwun Tong, developed fever, headache, muscle pain and dizziness on May 31 and consulted a private doctor on June 2. No hospitalization was required and he had already recovered.
CHP's investigations revealed that he had travelled to the Philippines alone from May 19 to 27. His home contacts did not have any symptoms of dengue fever.
This is the ninth imported dengue fever reported in 2007. There were 31 cases in 2006 and all of them were classified as imported cases.
A spokesman for CHP urged members of the public to stay alert to the threat of dengue fever and help preventing 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;
* Cover tightly 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 http://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.
End/Wednesday, June 27, 2007