The Department of Health, Security Bureau and Immigration Department have agreed with the Shenzhen Entry-exit Inspection & Quarantine Bureau to further strengthen health measures at border check points as well as their notification mechanism.

After a meeting with the Shenzhen Bureau today, Director of Health Dr Lam Ping-yan said all parties expressed concerns about the suspected SARS case in Guangzhou and had in-depth discussions on the enhanced border control measures being implemented to prevent SARS.

Both sides agreed that heightened vigilance against SARS throughout the winter months was essential. They also agreed to strengthen co-operation so that a prompt response could be made if necessary.

The meeting noted that the Mainland was very concerned about the health of Hong Kong people. It has especially requested tighter controls at all border crossing points, in particular at the crossings to Hong Kong.

Suspected SARS patient improves

Meanwhile, the condition of the 32-year-old suspected SARS patient in Guangzhou continued to improve and his temperature remained normal.

The Department of Health is maintaining daily contact with its Guangdong counterparts to obtain the latest information on the case.

About 500,000 travellers arrived from or departed for the Mainland yesterday. Seven were found to have a fever and 63 were reported to be unwell.

Among them, five were referred to hospitals for further examination. However, none of them was thought to have contracted SARS, and only one was admitted for treatment. The condition of this patient is stable.