CHP announces investigation progress of a case of dengue fever (with photos)

     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 19) continued its investigation into a case of dengue fever (DF) announced yesterday (June 18). The CHP urged again the public to maintain strict environmental hygiene, mosquito control and personal protective measures both locally and during travel.

     According to the latest findings of epidemiological investigations, no linked case has been identified by the CHP so far. Meanwhile, blood sample of the patient's household contact tested negative for dengue virus upon laboratory testing. As at 6pm today, the CHP has contacted over 2 600 residents from over 1 000 households of Tin Shui (1) Estate in Tin Shui Wai where the patient resided. No suspected case is identified.

     The CHP's further investigations revealed that the patient works in a company at Super Terminal 1 of Hong Kong International Airport. Due to operational needs, she occasionally visits to the Cathay Cargo Terminal and Airport Freight Forwarding Centre. Her colleagues are currently asymptomatic and under medical surveillance. Officers from the CHP and the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) inspected the relevant locations today. The management of the premises is advised to strengthen their anti-mosquito measures. The CHP and the Hong Kong Airport Authority have provided the relevant information to the airport staffs and will arrange health talk for the staffs working in the relevant premises.

     In addition, the patient recalled history of mosquito bites on a bus when travelling to and from workplace during the incubation period. Officers from the CHP inspected cleansing service contractor's mosquito prevention and control work on buses of that bus route concerned. The Transport Department has also requested the bus operator to strengthen mosquito control measures at appropriate times.

     The CHP held a health talk jointly with the FEHD this evening in the Tin Shui Community Centre, during which the CHP also conducted free DF antibody tests for people in the district with relevant symptoms.

     Meanwhile, the CHP appeals to persons who have been to Tin Shui (1) Estate with DF symptoms to call the CHP's hotline (2125 2374) which is operating from 9am to 5pm from today, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) for laboratory investigation or referral as appropriate. Dengue fever is clinically characterised by high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, swollen lymph nodes and rash.

The CHP's investigations are ongoing.

     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 the 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 trousers and apply insect repellent containing DEET to clothing and uncovered areas of the body when doing outdoor activities.

     DEET-containing insect repellents are effective and the public should take heed of the tips below:
 

  • Read the label instructions carefully 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.

* For children who travel to countries or areas where mosquito-borne diseases are endemic or epidemic and where exposure is likely, those aged 2 months or above can use DEET-containing insect repellents with a DEET concentration of up to 30 per cent.

     The public should call 1823 in case of mosquito problems and may visit the following pages for more information: the DF pages of the CHP and the Travel Health Service, the latest Travel Health News, tips for using insect repellents, and the CHP Facebook Page and YouTube Channel.

Photo  Photo  Photo