Press Release

Health advice to travellers

April 12, 2001

The Department of Health (DH) reminded members of the public travelling outside Hong Kong during the Easter holidays to take precautionary measures against diseases and travel-related hazards.

The Chief Port Health Officer of DH, Dr P L Ma, said today (April 12): "Holidaymakers and travellers should at all times observe good personal and food hygiene to prevent gastro-intestinal diseases. They should take active measures to prevent mosquito bites and, if necessary, preventive medications to prevent mosquito-borne diseases."

Members of the public can take advantage of DH's Travellers' Health Service offering "one-stop" quality travel-related advice, vaccinations and preventive medications.

They can obtain information by visiting DH's travel health website address: http://www.info.gov.hk/trhealth/e_HKTHS.htm .

Following are useful tips to prevent gastro-intestinal diseases such as cholera,typhoid, viral hepatitis A and dysentery which are common in tropical areas :

• eat only thoroughly cooked food particularly seafood and shellfish, and food fresh from sealed packs or cans;
• drink only boiled water, canned or bottled drinks, pasteurised milk or dairy products;
• always wash hands before eating;
• do not eat fruits that have not been peeled by yourself and fruits and vegetables that are not thoroughly cleansed; and
• do not patronise illegal food hawkers.

Travellers should take the following preventive measures to prevent mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever, malaria and yellow fever:

• wear long-sleeved clothes and long trousers;
• use insect repellent over the exposed parts of the body; and
• use mosquito screens or nets when the room is not air-conditioned.

To prevent AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases, it is best for travellers not to have sexual relationship with unknown partners who may be infected. They should always practise safer sex using condoms properly.

Travellers need to be aware that injuries during travel are not uncommon. They should avoid boarding over-crowded or over-used vessels or vehicles, and be careful and take necessary precautionary measures especially when participating in high risk activities like diving.

Dr Ma said: "On return to Hong Kong, holidaymakers are advised to consult a doctor at once if they feel unwell or have such symptons as fever, chills, rashes, diarrhoea and vomiting. They should inform the doctor their travel history so as to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment."