Update on number of dengue fever cases
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From May 12 to 18, the CHP recorded three confirmed cases. The patients had been to Thailand (two) and Singapore (one) during the incubation period.
As of yesterday (May 18), the 29 imported DF cases so far in 2017 were mainly imported from Thailand (eight), the Philippines (five), Indonesia and Sri Lanka (four each). No local cases have been recorded so far this year.
Dengue remains endemic in some neighbouring and overseas areas. In Guangdong, 27 cases were recorded in 2017 as of May 12. In Asia, one local case has been filed to date in Taiwan in 2017, 10 343 cases in Thailand, 1 016 in Singapore and 63 in Japan since January 2.
In the rainy season, the public should take heed of the following advice on mosquito control:
- Thoroughly check all gully traps, roof gutters, surface channels and drains to prevent blockage;
- Scrub and clean drains and surface channels with an alkaline detergent compound at least once a week to remove any deposited mosquito eggs;
- Properly dispose of refuse, such as soft drink cans, empty bottles and boxes, in covered litter containers;
- Completely change water of flowers and plants at least once a week. The use of saucers should be avoided if possible;
- Level irregular ground surfaces before the rainy season;
- Avoid staying in shrubby areas; and
- Take personal protective measures such as wearing light-coloured long-sleeved clothes and long trousers and apply insect repellent containing DEET to clothing or uncovered areas of the body when doing outdoor activities.
To reduce the risk of infections spread by mosquitoes, apart from general measures, travellers returning from affected areas should apply insect repellent for 14 days (DF) or at least 21 days (Zika Virus Infection) upon arrival in Hong Kong. If feeling unwell, seek medical advice promptly and provide travel details to the doctor. DEET-containing insect repellents are effective and the public should take heed of the tips below:
- Read carefully the label instructions first;
- Apply right before entering an area with risk of mosquito bites;
- Apply on exposed skin and clothing;
- Use DEET of up to 30 per cent for pregnant women and up to 10 per cent for children;
- Apply sunscreen first, then insect repellent; and
- Re-apply only when needed and follow the instructions.
The public may refer to the CHP's tips for using insect repellents for details.
Ends/Friday, May 19, 2017
Issued at HKT 15:30
Issued at HKT 15:30
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