HK steps up precautionary measures against SARS
( 2004-01-01 20:42) (Xinhua)
The Hong Kong government has
stepped up precautionary measures at all the immigration control points in view
of a suspected SARS case in Guangzhou, a spokesman for Hong Kong's Department of
Health said Thursday.
The spokesman said about 500,000 travelers arrived from or departed for
Chinese mainland Wednesday. Nine had been found to have a fever and 48 were
reported to be unwell. Among these people, four were referred to hospitals for
further examination.
"But none of them was suspected of having contracted SARS, and
hospitalization was not required," the spokesman said.
The department's SARS hotline received 75 inquiries from Dec. 27 to 12 p.m.
Thursday.
"For safety's sake, recent travelers to Guangdong who have fever or symptoms
of respiratory tract infection should consult their doctors at once," the
spokesman said.
The department has reminded the Hospital Authority, private hospitals,
private doctors and laboratory personnel in Hong Kong to maintain vigilance in
infection control and disease reporting.
"We have also sent letters to all Chinese medicine practitioners to advise
them to be vigilant. Even though Hong Kong has been free from SARS since early
June, the public is reminded to remain vigilant and observe good personal
hygiene," the spokesman added.
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