On the first day of re-activation of temperature screening at Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau boundary crossings, nine people have been found to have slight fevers, Department of Health Deputy Director Dr TH Leung says.

He said as none of them had reached the high-risk stage, they have been advised to consult doctors on their own.

Speaking on a radio talk show this morning, Dr Leung said temperature screening at border checkpoints can effectively detect travellers with illness at an early stage and help raise their health awareness so they can reschedule their journey if necessary.

He urged travellers to wear masks if they have the flu, and exercise extra caution if they are travelling to high-risk areas.

Ultra-red screening equipment works better

Dr Leung said the ultra-red temperature screening equipment currently used in Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau can work without affecting commuter flow as travellers are not required to stand still for temperature checks. They will be installed at other border checkpoints in future.

But he stressed as the flu virus can spread during the incubation period, people should pay high attention to their personal and environmental hygiene, getting into the habit of washing their hands regularly, eating a balanced diet and doing physical exercise.

Dr Leung said the current flu vaccination programme is tailor-made for high-risk cases and the needy who are less likely to access private medical care, allowing time for them to build up immunity before the seasonal peak from January to March.

More flu vaccines ready next month

He said additional vaccines will be available next month, and as the vaccines will take effect two weeks after injection, it is not necessary for the general public to rush for injections now.