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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has urged people to guard against dengue fever following the confirmation of an imported case by laboratory test today (March 12).
The patient, a 63-year-old man living in Tai Po, developed symptoms of fever, muscle pain and tiredness on February 25. He was admitted to Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital on March 1 and was discharged on March 7.
CHP's investigations revealed that he had travelled to Thailand with three people from February 17 to 25. His companions did not have any symptoms.
This is the third imported dengue fever reported this year. There were 31 cases in 2006 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 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.
Ends/Monday, March 12, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:25
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