(ECNS) -- Hong Kong health authorities have urged medical staff and residents to be vigilant gainst the Zika virus following increasing cases in Singapore and confirmation of the first imported case in Hong Kong last week.
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) at the Department of Health (DH) issued notices to doctors and hospitals calling for prompt laboratory investigation in cases of patients clinically suspected of Zika virus infection.
Due to the large volume of international tourists, there is a high risk of introduction of the virus into Hong Kong, said a spokesman for the CHP.
To prevent possible spread of the Zika virus, early laboratory investigation is extremely important in identifying potential cases, said the spokesman, adding that while extra caution is warranted for those with a history of travel to affected areas.
Hong Kong Department of Health's Port Health Office has stepped up inspection at border control points to maintain strict environmental hygiene along with effective mosquito control.
The spokesman added that routine health surveillance on the body temperature of inbound travelers at all entry points is ongoing. Suspected cases will be referred to healthcare facilities for follow-up.
The DH has been working closely with the travel industry and related stakeholders, especially agents operating tours in Zika-affected areas and personnel receiving travelers from those areas, particularly pregnant women, to regularly update them on the latest information and health advice.
