Guangdong and Hong Kong have stepped up anti-SARS measures at all control points to curb any potential spread of the disease, Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa says.

Speaking tonight, Mr Tung quoted experts as saying that there is a high possibility the suspected SARS case in Guangzhou will be confirmed.

In this regard, Mr Tung has spoken with Guangdong Governor Huang Huahua who has assured that all precautionary measures will be strengthened at checkpoints.

Meanwhile, close contacts with the Central Government and Guangdong Province will be maintained.

Mr Tung said Director of Health will visit Shenzhen tomorrow to review and co-ordinate precautionary measures at control points.

The condition of the 32-year-old suspected SARS patient in Guangzhou is improving and his temperature has been normal for the sixth day in a row, the Department of Health said.

The department is maintaining daily contact with its Guangdong counterparts to obtain the latest information. World Health Organisation and the Mainland health experts are looking into case.

Of the 500,000 travellers arriving from or departing for the Mainland yesterday, 14 were found to have a fever and 62 were reported to be unwell.

Among them, four were referred to hospitals for further examination. However, none are suspected of having contracted SARS.

The department's SARS hotline (187 2222) has received 48 enquiries from December 27 to 12pm today.