The Department of Health has confirmed an imported case of Dengue fever and urged the public to guard against the disease.

The victim is a 58-year-old woman who developed a fever, and joint and muscle pain on February 14. She has now recovered and been discharged from hospital.

She had travelled to a Southeast Asian country on January 23 and returned to Hong Kong on February 12.

To date, there have been seven Dengue cases in Hong Kong this year, all imported.

The department reminded people to be vigilant against the disease and mosquito breeding, by:

* putting all used cans and bottles into covered dustbins;

* change plant water at least once a week, leaving no water in the saucers underneath flowerpots;

* cover tightly all water containers, wells and water storage tanks; and,

* keep all drains free from blockage.

Travellers should:

* wear long-sleeved tops and trousers;

* use insect repellent over exposed parts of the body; and,

* use mosquito screens or nets when rooms are not air-conditioned.