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Update on number of cases of dengue fever

2 January 2015

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 2) provided an update on the number of cases of dengue fever (DF) in Hong Kong, and called on the public to take preventive measures to guard against DF.

One new case was reported between December 19, 2014, and January 1, 2015, involving a patient who had travelled to Vietnam during the incubation period. There were a total of 111 confirmed cases of DF in Hong Kong last year, including 108 imported cases and three local cases.

DF is a common mosquito-borne disease. From 2004 to 2013, a total of 505 cases of DF were recorded in Hong Kong with no deaths.

"At present, no effective vaccine for DF is available. Therefore, the best preventive measures are to avoid mosquito bites and to eliminate pockets of stagnant water that serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes," a spokesman for the CHP said.

Travellers should take the following preventive measures against DF:

  • Wear loose, light-coloured, long-sleeved tops and trousers;
  • Use DEET-containing insect repellent on exposed parts of the body and clothing; and
  • Use mosquito screens or nets in rooms that are not air-conditioned.

Anyone feeling unwell after returning from a trip should seek medical advice as soon as possible and provide travel details to their doctor.

The latest information on DF in other places can be found under "Travel Health News" on the Hong Kong Travel Health Service website at 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.

Members of the public should avoid the accumulation of stagnant water by:

  • Disposing of all used cans and containers in covered rubbish bins;
  • Changing the water in vases with plants once a week in order to prevent accumulation of stagnant water in the saucers;
  • Covering all containers, wells and water storage points;
  • Ensuring air-conditioner drip trays are free of stagnant water;
  • Keeping all drains clear; and
  • Paving all uneven ground.

More information on mosquito control can be found on the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department's website at www.fehd.gov.hk/english/safefood/handbook_prev_mos_breeding.html .

2 Jan 2015