Officials from
Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection (CHP), a branch of the Department of Health, recently published an update with the most recent number of dengue fever cases.
The CHP used this opportunity to remind and encourage the public to practice strict personal and environmental hygiene, as well as mosquito control. The public must also practice personal protective measures when they are residing in Hong Kong or traveling abroad.
“Dengue viruses encompass four different serotypes,” the CHP spokesperson said. “The symptoms of first infection with one serotype are usually mild, but subsequent infections with other serotypes even years afterward are more likely to result in severe dengue, also known as dengue haemorrhagic fever. Severe dengue is serious and potentially fatal. Without proper treatment, the case fatality rate of severe dengue can exceed 20 percent.”
Between Dec. 11 and 23, there were two more dengue fever cases confirmed. Both of these cases were imported from Thailand. In addition, there have been further cases detected in Taiwan.
“As the dengue activity in southern Taiwan remains high, the public are reminded to take anti-mosquito measures when travelling to the area, and to Southeast Asian countries, in order to prevent DF,” the
CHP
spokesperson said.
