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Hong Kong's Department of Health is to introduce an additional precautionary measure for departing passengers at the Hong Kong International Airport to contain the spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
The Economic Development and Labor Bureau, Airport Authority, airline companies, Department of Health and other departments and parties concerned held a meeting Sunday morning to work out details of a plan to measure body temperature of departing passengers as announced by Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa last Friday.
The objective is to further strengthen HK's efforts in controlling the spread of SARS by preventing people likely to be infected from leaving Hong Kong.
The Airport Authority and airlines have shown tremendous support to the stepped-up measure. They have pledged to provide assistance in carrying out the scheme at the airport. The measure is expected to be implemented in the coming week.
Those whose body temperature above 38 degrees centigrade will not be allowed to depart and will be advised to see a doctor.
International travelers should be aware of SARS' main symptoms include fever, dry cough, shortness of breath or breathing difficulties. Persons who experience these symptoms will be advised to see a doctor and postpone their trip.
(eastday.com April 14, 2003)
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