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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 29) urged members of the public to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of two imported cases by laboratory test.
The first case involved a 21-year-old man who developed symptoms of dengue including fever, chills and rash on April 20. He was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital on April 20 and was discharged on April 28.
CHP's investigation revealed that he had travelled to the Philippines between April 1 and April 19. Investigation is on-going.
In the second case, a 62-year-old woman developed fever and chills on April 22. She attended the Accident and Emergency Department of Tseung Kwan O Hospital and has recovered without hospitalisation.
She had travelled to Indonesia alone between February 18 and April 18.
There have been 10 cases of imported dengue fever so far this year. Fifty-eight cases were reported in 2007 and all of them are classified as imported cases.
A spokesman for CHP urged the public to stay alert to the threat of dengue fever and to help prevent 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 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.
Ends/Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:34
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