Hong Kong: Fever screening conducted at border checkpoints January 3

Event

As of Friday, January 3, Hong Kong authorities have implemented temperature screenings at border checkpoints for travelers arriving from Wuhan (Hubei province, China) by both rail and air transportation to prevent the potential spread of a viral pneumonia.

Context

As of 08:00 on January 3, the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission (WMHC) has reported 44 cases of unknown viral pneumonia in Wuhan, China, among which 11 patients are in critical condition. No immediate evidence of human-to-human transmission has been reported.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and trouble breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia. 

Advice

Individuals travelling to Hong Kong from Wuhan are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate additional security checks at the airport, take hygienic measures to reduce their risk of contracting the virus (frequent hand washing, face mask, avoid contact with potential carriers of the disease), and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments. People developing symptoms of pneumonia are advised to seek medical attention.