The Centre for Health Protection warns travellers to the Philippines to observe good personal hygiene amid reports more than 1,000 typhoid fever cases have occurred in the country recently.

The centre is liaising with the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong and the Philippines Department of Health for more information on the situation.

The Travel Industry Council has informed the travel industry to take precautions.

Four typhoid cases have been reported in Hong Kong this year, of which three were imported. Forty-six cases were reported last year and in 2006.

It is usually transmitted by consuming contaminated food and water. Symptoms include fever, tiredness, chills, headache, and muscle and joint aches. Diarrhoea can also occur.

For prevention tips click here.