The Controller of the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH), Dr Leung Ting-hung, today (November 3) announced the investigation into the second local confirmed case of dengue fever (DF), and hence again urged the public to take precautions against mosquito-transmitted diseases.
The male patient, aged 25 with good past health, has presented with fever, headache, myalgia and arthralgia since October 27 and consulted private doctors on October 27, 28 and November 1. He attended Hong Kong Baptist Hospital yesterday (November 2) and was admitted for further management. He is now afebrile and has been in stable condition all along.
The patient’s serum sample was tested positive against IgM antibodies for dengue virus and dengue antigen upon testing by the CHP’s Public Health Laboratory Services Branch today.
Initial inquiries revealed that the patient lives in Hang On Building, 43-59 Po Kong Village Road, Wong Tai Sin. He worked in the construction site of MTR Sai Ying Pun Station where he recalled mosquito bites before onset. He had no recent travel history during incubation period.
“We are very concerned about the case and are working closely with the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) for all-out efforts to assess and prevent any spread of infection,” Dr Leung remarked.
“Upon notification and laboratory confirmation, the CHP immediately commenced epidemiological investigation and promptly informed the FEHD for vector investigation and mosquito control, as well as the management office of Hang On Building, the Wong Tai Sin District Office under the Home Affairs Department, the MTR Corporation Limited, and the Immigration Department for their corresponding follow-up actions. The CHP’s investigations and health education in the vicinity where the patient frequented are proceeding,” Dr Leung said.
One week ago, the CHP reported on the 1st local transmission of dengue fever in Hong Kong since 2010.
As of October 30, there had been 94 confirmed cases of DF in Hong Kong this year (Of course that number will be higher now).
