Press Release - April 25, 2003

With effect from 8 am tomorrow (April 26), the Department of Health of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)will check the temperature of people arriving in Hong Kong at the immigration control points in Sha Tau Kok, Man Kam To, Lok Ma Chau, China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui and Hong Kong-Macao Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan.

The measure is part of the HKSAR Government's strategy to further contain the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), a spokesman for the department said today (April 25).

The spokesman said the measure will apply to both passengers and drivers. Lorry and container truck drivers will be asked to park their vehicles at the Customs Cargo Examination Platforms for temperature measurement.

Noting that the measure could cause some inconvenience to travelers, the spokesman hoped they would understand that it was an essential measure for their own sake and that of the community.

"Members of the HKSAR Civil Aid Service and Auxiliary Medical Service will be responsible for taking the body temperature of people arriving at these checkpoints. The HKSAR Immigration Department and relevant parties will provide support and assistance.

"Those suspected of having SARS will be referred to hospitals for further management," the spokesman said.

For updated information and latest news on respiratory tract infections, please visit the special home page on the subject at www.info.gov.hk/info/infection-e.htm, and the HKSAR Department of Health website at www.info.gov.hk/dh/ap.htm as well as the e-bulletin at www.news.gov.hk/en/index.shtml.