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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (March 4) called on travellers to the Philippines to observe good personal hygiene to prevent typhoid fever.
The plea was made following reports of over 1 000 cases of typhoid fever in the country recently.
A CHP spokesman said they were closely monitoring the situation and maintaining liaison with the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong and the Department of Health of the country for more information on the cases.
"We acknowledged that the incident has raised public concern and that many Filipinos in Hong Kong will return to their country for holidays. However, the disease is preventable should travellers to the Philippines strictly observe good personal and food hygiene," the spokesman said.
Through the Travel Industry Council, the travel industry has been informed about the situation in the Philippines and advised to take precautions against the disease.
Returning travellers should seek medical advice if they become ill after returning from their trips. They should discuss their recent travel history with the doctor.
The spokesman said typhoid fever was endemic in Hong Kong and the number of cases reported in the year 2005, 2006 and 2007 were 36, 46 and 46 respectively.
A total of four cases have been reported so far this year, of which three were imported cases, he added.
The spokesman said typhoid fever was caused by the bacteria salmonella typhi and incubation period was usually between seven to 21 days.
"It is usually transmitted by consuming food and water contaminated by feces or urine of patients or carriers. Onset of the illness is usually marked by fever, tiredness, chills, headache and generalised muscle and joint aches. Diarrhoea may occur," he said.
To prevent infection, members of the public should take the following measures:
* Wash hands properly with soap and water before eating or handling food, and after toilet or changing diapers.
* Clean, wash and cook food thoroughly.
* Wash fruits and vegetables before consumption.
* Do not handle cooked food with bare hands; wear gloves if necessary.
* Handle and store raw and cooked food especially seafood separately to avoid cross contamination.
* Purchase fresh food from reliable sources. Do not buy cooked food from illegal hawkers.
* Drinking water should come from the mains and be boiled.
Ends/Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:42
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