13 Feb 2009
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 13) urged members of the public and management of institutions to take preventive measures against influenza-like-illness (ILI) by observing strict environmental and personal hygiene.
The appeal was made during the CHP's investigation of report of two influenza outbreaks in primary schools, affecting a total of 43 people.
The first case affected 21 students, comprising 14 boys and seven girls aged from six to 10, developed symptoms of ILI, including fever, cough and sore throat between February 6 and February 12.
Twenty of them sought medical attention and another eight-year-old boy was admitted to Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital. His clinical specimens were tested positive to Influenza B.
In the second case, a total of 20 students and two staff, comprising 21 male and one female aged from seven to 32, developed symptoms of ILI, including fever, cough, running nose and sore throat between February 4 and February 13.
Thirteen of them sought consultation at private doctors and out-patient clinics while one of them attended Accident and Emergency Department of Princess Margaret Hospital. An 11-year-old boy was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital. His clinical specimens were tested positive to Influenza A. He has been discharged and all of them are in stable condition.
CHP officials have conducted field visits to the schools and provided health advice to the staff.
To prevent respiratory tract infection, the public are advised to adopt the following measures:
* Build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* Maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands after sneezing or coughing, and wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation.
Members of the public, particularly children, elderly people and those with chronic diseases, should wear face masks and consult doctors promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.