Hong Kong steps up SARS prevention measures

cctv.com 01-06-2004 09:14

Hong Kong, a close neighbour of Guangdong Province where the suspected SARS case was confirmed, has stepped up its surveillance and monitoring system to prevent a resurgence of the disease.

At a press conference on SARS prevention, one health official said any possible SARS cases will be reported as early as possible to control its spread in Hong Kong.

Dr Yeoh said the government will strengthen its communication with Mainland authorities and urge private doctors and hospitals to report any pneumonia cases where patients had visited Guangdong 10 days prior to falling ill. He also required quick tests on samples of all pneumonia cases that develop in the community. Other measures include stepping up checks at border control points and increasing publicity on SARS prevention measures.

Hospital Authority Chief Executive Dr William Ho said he now requires all patients visiting clinics to have their temperatures checked. He also asked all staff and visitors in the hospital area to wear masks and for visitors to wash their hands before leaving the wards.

Director of Health Dr Lam Ping-yan said the precautionary measures at immigration control points have also been strengthened. Referring to the Philippino woman suspected of contracting SARS after returning from Hong Kong, Dr Lam said the WHO had been contacted and that the government was following the situation closely.

Editor:Xiao  Source:CCTV.com