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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 21) urged people to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of an imported case by laboratory test.
The case involved a 33-year-old woman who developed symptoms of dengue fever including fever, headache, muscle pain, chills and rash on April 21. She attended private doctors and has recovered without hospitalisation.
CHP's investigation revealed that she had travelled to the Maldives between April 5-13. Two of the woman's fellow travellers, men aged 30 and 39, were confirmed to have dengue fever on April 30 and yesterday respectively. Two other companions also developed symptoms compatible with dengue fever.
Thirteen cases of imported dengue fever have been reported to the CHP so far this year. Fifty-eight cases were reported in 2007 and all of them were classified as imported cases.
A spokesman for CHP urged people 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/Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:06
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