The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) is currently investigating a probable locally acquired case of dengue fever, urging the public to maintain strict environmental hygiene, mosquito control, and personal protective measures both locally and during travel.
The patient, a 54-year-old woman with underlying health conditions, developed fever and retro-orbital pain on June 6. She consulted a private doctor on June 9 and was admitted to the accident and emergency department of Tin Shui Wai Hospital on June 11. For further treatment, she was transferred to Pok Oi Hospital on June 14. Currently in stable condition, her blood sample tested positive for the dengue virus.
Initial investigations indicate that the patient resides in Tin Shui (1) Estate in Tin Shui Wai. Given that she only left Hong Kong for a few hours and stayed within the region during the incubation period, the case is considered probably locally acquired. Her home contact remains asymptomatic and is under medical surveillance.
No epidemiological links have been found between this case and previous dengue fever cases in Hong Kong.
“The DH is collaborating closely with the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) to assess and prevent a potential spread of the infection. Vector investigations, surveillance, and control measures by the FEHD are ongoing, alongside the CHP’s epidemiological investigations,” said a spokesman for the CHP.
Officers from the CHP have inspected the patient’s residence and will conduct field investigations in the neighborhood, including questionnaire surveys of nearby residents.
Individuals who have visited Tin Shui (1) Estate in Tin Shui Wai and exhibit dengue fever symptoms are advised to contact the CHP’s hotline at 2125 2374 starting tomorrow, June 19. The hotline will operate Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for laboratory investigations or referrals. Additionally, the CHP will hold a joint health talk with the FEHD at 6 p.m. tomorrow at the Tin Shui Community Centre, where free dengue fever antibody tests will be offered to symptomatic individuals in the district.
“Letters will be issued to local doctors and hospitals to inform them of the latest situation,” the spokesman added.
This marks the second local dengue fever case recorded in Hong Kong this year. As of June 13, there have been 26 imported dengue fever cases reported.
“Travellers returning from dengue-affected areas should apply insect repellent for 14 days upon arrival in Hong Kong. If feeling unwell, they should seek medical advice promptly and inform their doctor of their travel history,” the CHP spokesman advised.
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.
