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Dengue Fever in Hong Kong

24 June 2015

On 22 June 2015, a locally acquired case of dengue fever was reported by the health authorities in Hong Kong to the GeoSentinel Network. No cases of dengue fever were reprted in Hong Kong between 2003-2013; in 2014, a small number of locally acquired cases were reported.

The Aedes aegypti mosquito which is known to transmit dengue virus, is not found in Hong Kong, however, Aedes albopictus is present and this mosquito can also transmit dengue virus, although less effectively than Aedes aegypti.

In 2014, a large outbreak of dengue fever was reported in neighbouring GuangDong province in southern China; tranmission of dengue virus is anticipated to be higher during 2015, by comparison.

Advice for Travellers

Avoidance of mosquito bites, particularly during daylight hours, is recommended. Bite avoidance measures include: covering up with clothing, the use of insect repellent and bed nets impregnated with insecticide. Reduction of mosquito breeding sites around hotel rooms/homes is advised for longer term stays.