A 66-year-old man has been infected by the Chikungunya virus, the Centre for Health Protection says. He developed fever, chills, rigor, and muscle pain on March 22 after returning from Mauritius. He is now in stable condition at Princess Margaret Hospital.

The centre's Consultant Dr Thomas Tsang said the patient did not use insect repellent during the trip. "His family members and relatives, who also travelled with him, do not have any symptoms and have been put under medical surveillance," he said.

The disease is characterised by fever, headache and joint pain. Some patients develop a rash on the trunk and limbs. The illness is usually self-limiting and lasts three to 10 days, although the joint pain can continue for weeks or months. The incubation period is one to 12 days.

Chikungunya virus is transmitted by infected aedes mosquitoes. Epidemics have occurred in Africa, Asia and on Indian Ocean Islands. The Department of Health is contacting travel agencies and Travel Industry Council to give health education on the virus. Doctors are also being told to watch for the disease.

Prevention tips

There is no vaccine for Chikungunya fever, so people are reminded to stay alert to mosquito-borne diseases. Travellers should:

* avoid visiting mosquito-infested areas;

* avoid visiting forests or areas with monkeys;

* wear long-sleeved clothes and long trousers light in colour for protection against mosquitoes;

* use insect repellent;

* use mosquito screens or nets when the room is not air-conditioned; and,

* travellers returning from countries where Chikungunya is endemic and suffer from symptoms of the disease should seek prompt medical advice.

To prevent mosquito borne diseases, it is important to eliminate pockets of stagnant water that serve as mosquito breeding sites at home, at schools, workplaces and their vicinity, and to avoid mosquito bites. A special hotline 2125 2727 has been set up during office hours to answer public enquiries. I will operate until 9pm today.